RECENT NEWS
2nd December 2022
Thank you for joining us!
1st December 2022
Join our free group!
26th November 2022
It’s TOMORROW!
Our Winter Craft Fair is TOMORROW!
Bring all your family and friends for a fantastic day out together at Bedford House!
STALLS, LIVE MUSIC, CAFE, AND CHILDREN’S ENTERTAINMENT
We’ve got over 25 stalls, children’s entertainment, a cafe with homemade cakes, live music, a tombola and several activities run by our amazing tutors!
Looking for sustainable gifts? We’ve got you covered with several stalls using recycled materials.
Want to brighten up your home for Christmas? We have artwork, plants and ornaments for sale!
Just looking for a chance to relax? Let your children be entertained with magic, puppetry and facepainting while you enjoy the live music.
Want to learn more about what we do? Several of our tutors will be around running activities, and our BHCA staff members will be on hand to answer any queries.
We can’t wait to see you tomorrow!
ENROLMENT FOR TERM TWO
Priority Enrolment for current students ends on the 30th of November. To secure your place for next term, you can enrol now. If you’re not a current member, booking will open on the 1st of December.
25th November 2022
Priority Enrolment ends soon!
Have you booked your courses for next term yet?
ENROLMENT FOR TERM TWO
Priority Enrolment for current students ends on the 30th of November. To secure your place for next term, you can enrol now. You can enrol by calling the office on 020 8504 6668, emailing admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or visiting our reception in person.
If you’re not a current member, booking will open on the 1st of December.
LOOKING FOR A UNIQUE CHRISTMAS GIFT?
Has your partner always wanted to try oil painting? Or are you struggling to find a gift for your in-laws? Why not gift them a space on one of our courses or workshops?
You can enrol on the behalf of your loved ones to surprise them!
LOOKING FOR A GIFT FOR GROUPS?
We now create bespoke workshops, tailored to your needs. Whether you’re looking for a private pottery workshop for your family, or an evening of painting for your book club, we’re here to find the perfect gift for you!
Email Lykke on ceo@bedfordhouse.org.uk to discuss your requirements.
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
‘How Charles Dickens Invented Christmas’ Starts 28th November
Winter Craft Fair 27th November 10:00 - 17:00
Wreath-making Workshop 10th December spaces still available for the afternoon slot at 13:30. (MORNING SLOT 10:00: ONLY 2 PLACES REMAINING) IS FULLY BOOKED
Upholstery Workshop 28th January & 4th February
Managing Diabetes 27th March 2023.
23rd November 2022
Don’t forget this Sunday!
Our Winter Craft Fair is on Sunday 10:00-17:00!
Have you invited your family yet?
STALLS, LIVE MUSIC, CAFE, AND CHILDREN’S ENTERTAINMENT
It’s going to be a packed day, with over 25 stalls selling perfect Christmas gifts for all your loved ones. From kiln-fired enamels to flowers and plants, you’ll be sure to pick up something for all the family.
Looking for some entertainment for your children whilst you browse the stalls? BHCA staff member Clare will be on hand with facepainting, glitter tattoos, puppetry and magic.
When you’ve done all your shopping, you can relax in our cafe with homemade cakes and hot drinks.
We’ll even have live music! Bedford House regulars Darklight will be returning from 12:00-15:00, and new to us are musical duo Fintan Kealy and Talisker Horton who will join us from 10:00-12:00 and 3:00-17:00.
We’ll also have a Crochet-Along with our Crafting Coordinator Jo, who will be leading the Bedford House Crafters in January. Ever wanted to learn to crochet? Join Jo in the hall to have a go!
Meet our tutors Rosemary Haslam and Lauraine Everitt, who will be leading our ‘Charles Dickens Invented Christmas’ course, and our new Creative Writing course, launching in January. Rosemary and Lauraine will be running activities, so be sure to drop in to do some writing!
21st November 2022
‘How Charles Dickens Invented Christmas’
Our new 3-week course with Rosemary Haslam and Lauraine Everitt starts on the 28th of November, from 10:00-12:00.
Have you ever wondered why Charles Dickens is so synonymous with Christmas? Join us for a 3-week course exploring how ‘A Christmas Carol’ still has the power to uplift generations, through the book and its many adaptations from stage to screen.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT?
This course runs for 3 weeks. This course will be full of opportunities to have fun acting out scenes and get stuck into the serious issues at the heart of Dickens’ writing. Each session has a different focus as detailed below.
Session 1: Introduction to Dickens’ life and the Victorian World, focusing on Christmas.
Session 2: In depth look at ‘A Christmas Carol’ including a little bit of drama.
Session 3: Continuing with ‘A Christmas Carol’ and how other writers and film directors have used and interpreted it.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
This three-week course costs £45 in total.
16th November 2022
Winter Craft Fair 2022
The Winter Craft Fair is fast approaching!
This year there’ll be over 25 stallholders, live music, children’s entertainment, our cafe and more!
LIVE MUSIC
The well-loved duo Darklights will be returning. This musical team are Bedford House favourites!
Joining us for the first time are pianist Fintan Kealy and singer Talisker Horton, who will be providing some smooth winter jazz. Fintan will also be accompanying BHCA staff member Clare on her violin, with some alternative Christmas carols!
Want to showcase your talents? Send Clare an email on admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk to register for our Open Mic.
OUR STALLHOLDERS
It would take more than one email to introduce all of our wonderful stallholders! This year we’ve got a wide range of artists, crafters and small business owners.
You can expect kiln-fired enamels from Erica Johns, tarot coaching from Zanara, jewellery by Flowsica, oil paintings by Andy Coote, glass bead ornaments from Rachel P, artwork made with natural materials by Walk the Loop, embroidered cards by DPDesigns, vegan curry pastes from Kharal Masala, herbal teas, and unique candles, and many, many more!
Bedford House also has its own stalls, including flowers and plants, mulled wine, our printmakers’ cards, art books, treasures throve art supplies, frames and more.
CHILDREN’S ENTERTAINMENT
In her other life as a theatre artist, BHCA staff member Clare is no stranger to children’s entertainment! Clare will be stationed in our hall with puppetry, facepainting, glitter tattoos, and even some magic. Even if you’re a grown-up, Clare’s entertainment is sure to be a hit for all the family!
THE BHCA CAFE
Refreshments will be available throughout the day in our hall. Expect tea, coffee, and homemade cakes!
Are you a keen baker? If you’d like to donate some baked goods, please send Clare an email on admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk.
COULD YOU VOLUNTEER?
As you can see, it’s going to be a packed day at Bedford House. Whether you’re good at welcoming people, cutting cake, or selling raffle tombola tickets, we want to hear from you! Send Lykke an email on ceo@bedfordhouse.org.uk to find your perfect role.
We’re also looking for raffle tombola prizes! If you’ve got something you’d like to donate, please bring it to the BHCA reception by Friday 25 November.
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Christmas Decorations Workshop 19th and 22nd November
‘Coping with Cancer’ 21st November 10:30
‘How Charles Dickens Invented Christmas’ Starts 21st November
Winter Craft Fair 27th November 10:00 - 17:00
Wreath-making Workshops 10th December starting at 10:00 and 13:30
14th November 2022
Autumn Art Exhibition
Thank you for coming to our Autumn Art Exhibition!
Did you miss our private view? Get in contact to book a guided tour, or pop in to explore yourself!
WANT MORE INFORMATION?
You can check out our digital programme here. We also have physical copies for you to pick up at Bedford House.
HOW CAN I SEE THE EXHIBITION?
If you’d like to see the exhibition, feel free to pop into Bedford House. Please note: not all the artwork is always accessible as some is located in our classrooms. To ensure you’re able to see the full exhibition, please call ahead to arrange a timeslot. Programmes are available on the first floor or available virtually here.
If you’d like a guided tour, please email Clare at admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or give us a ring.
11th November 2022
Coping with Cancer
The first of our ‘Living Life to the Full’ talks is fast approaching!
Join us for ‘Coping with Cancer’ on Monday 21st November.
COPING WITH CANCER
One in two people born after 1960 will experience cancer. This talk with Dr Qamar Abbas will provide you with accurate, valuable information to help us all approach cancer calmly, know how to possibly prevent it (38% of cancer cases are preventable, according to Cancer Research UK 2015), giving us all the facts we need to improve quality of life. This will be a great opportunity to learn in a relaxed environment, without the overwhelming volume of sometimes contradictory information we find online. Whether you’ve been personally affected by cancer, or you’re looking for preventative measures, this is sure to be a useful event for you and your loved ones.
This talk will begin at 10:30 on Monday 21 November.
The cost of this talk is £10, payable over the phone, in person or by bank transfer.
WHO WILL BE JOINING US?
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.
We’ll also be joined by Nicola Latham-Gibbs from Lambwood Heights, a residential, nursing, memory and respite care home. Lambwood Heights is a luxury, purpose-built care home, offering the highest standards of personalised care in a five-star environment. Lambwood Heights prioritises independence, dignity, and living life to the full. Nicola will be able to answer any unanswered questions regarding care and possibly other support.
9th November 2022
November at Bedford House
Our winter activities are fast approaching.
When will you be joining us?
THE WINTER CRAFT FAIR
Our Winter Craft Fair is going to be packed full of exciting stalls and activities.
You can expect kiln-fired enamels, herbs and teas, handmade cards, acrylic paint pours, digital illustrations, unique candles, hair accessories, music boxes, handmade cakes, homeware, nature-inspired artwork, artwork made using coffee, tea, and recycled materials, lino art prints, flowers, plants, and more!
There’ll also be live entertainment from musical duo Fintan Kealy and Talisker Horton and our favourite returners DarkLight. You can join them by signing up to our open mic! Email Clare on admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk for more information.
They’ll be entertainment for children, including puppetry, face painting, glitter tattoos, bubbles and more!
Our cafe will be full of have handmade cakes and hot drinks.
Want to volunteer on the day? Or even donate raffle prizes? Give us a ring or send an email to ceo@bedfordhouse.org.uk to express interest.
CERAMICS WORKSHOP
Our Christmas Ceramics workshop is coming up this week! Esther Neslen will be guiding us through making handmade decorations. Look below for a beautiful example. Esther’s style is far from your usual Christmas angel, and we love it! Create using your own style, or get tips from Esther herself!
This is a two-part workshop. First, you will shape your ceramics. Following this they will be fired. Then the following week you will glaze them, and they’ll be fired for a second time following this.
13th November - 10:00 - 12:00 (shaping ceramics)
20th November - 10:00 - 12:00 (glazing ceramics)
The workshop costs £49 in total, and this includes all materials and firing.
‘HOW CHARLES DICKENS INVENTED CHRISTMAS’
Want to delve into literature this winter? Join us for these Charles Dickens themed workshops.
Explore how ‘A Christmas Carol’ still has the power to uplift generations, through the book and its many adaptations from stage to screen. This course will be full of opportunities to have fun acting out scenes and get stuck into the serious issues at the heart of Dickens’ writing.
This is a 3-week course with Rosemary Haslam and Lauraine Everitt.
Monday 21st November 10:00 - 12:00 Introduction to Dickens’ life and the Victorian World, focusing on Christmas.
Monday 28th November 10:00 - 12:00 In depth look at ‘A Christmas Carol’ including a little bit of drama.
Monday 5th December 10:00 - 12:00 Continuing with ‘A Christmas Carol’ and how other writers and film directors have used and interpreted it.
This course costs £45 in total.
WREATH-MAKING WORKSHOP
Later in December we’ll be making our own Christmas wreaths!
Join Anne Daniels, Susie Spain, Alice Spain for an enjoyable Christmas Wreath workshop. This workshop provides an opportunity to design and make your own Christmas wreath. You will wire bent twigs together to form create a circular base of your chosen size. Then wind tinsel and/or sprigs of greenery around the base with wire. You will then finish by wiring some further decorative items on top of the greenery. Sprigs of conifers, holly and ivy will be supplied as greenery. Also, pinecones in various shapes and sizes, either natural in colour or spray painted, will be available and can be used as decorations.
There are two time slots available:
10th December - 10:00 to 12:30
10th December - 13:30 to 16:00
This workshop costs £25.
CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS WORKSHOP
Create multipurpose Christmas decorations with Margaret French!
Make three different decorations in a 2-hour workshop with Margaret French. Using felt, jewels, and embroidery cottons you can create multipurpose decorations. Use them on your Christmas tree, gift tags, or personalised gifts!
19th November 10:00 - 12:00
22nd November 10:00 - 12:00
A basic pack of materials will be provided. You can bring additional embellishments and felt if you wish to work in a particular colour scheme.
Each session costs £19.50.
5th November 2022
Dance at Bedford House
Do you love to dance?
Whether you’re a complete beginner, or have been dancing for years, we’ve got a course for you!
WHAT DO YOU OFFER?
Seated Dance - Thursdays 13:00-14:00
Contemporary Dance - Wednesdays 13:15 - 14:15
Ballet (beginners) - Tuesdays 11:15 - 12:15
Ballet (intermediate) - Tuesdays 12:15 - 13:15
WHAT’S SEATED DANCE?!
Seated Dance is a new class run by Rachel Newby (English National Ballet, Royal Academy of Dance). Rachel draws inspiration from her ballet and contemporary dance experience, and also incorporates movement from practices such as Tai Chi, Yoga and Pilates. These sessions allow you to work at your own pace, whilst building strength, balance, and heart rate. I was lucky enough to join Rachel for her first session. Check out our video here.
DO YOU HAVE ANY FREE TASTERS?
Next week they’ll be the opportunity to try out Contemporary Dance for free! Join us on the 9th of November from 13:15 - 14:15 to try out this new class before committing to the whole course. This is sure to be a supportive and engaging class, led by the ever-smiling Rachel Newby.
31st October 2022
Don’t forget our Private Viewing this Tuesday!
Here at Bedford House, we’ve got a busy couple of weeks ahead of us. We hope you’ll join us for these events and exciting new courses.
WHAT’S HAPPENING?
This week we’re getting ready for the private viewing of our Autumn Art Exhibition on Tuesday 1st November, 17:00-19:00. Come along for a glass of wine or soft drink, the chance to meet people on different courses, and to chat with our amazing art tutors about their work! We’d love you to invite any neighbours, friends or family who may not have heard about us before. If you’d like to book a private tour of our Autumn Art Exhibition on an alternative date, email Clare on admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk. Want to see a sneak preview? Take a look here.
We’re also looking forward to two new courses from Rachel Newby. Sign up for a free taster of Seated Dance on the 3rd November (13:15-14:15), and Contemporary Dance on the 9th November (13:00-14:00). Give us a ring, or email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk to book your place!
We’ve launched a new shop! On the first floor of Bedford House you’ll find a new frame shop. We’ve both preloved and new frames, varying in sizes and style. Come and have a look for your perfect frame.
It’s only a few weeks until our Christmas Ceramics Workshop! Once you’ve seen Esther Neslen’s incredible sculpture at our exhibition, you’ll be delighted to know you can be taught by the sculptor herself! Esther will be delivering a two-part workshop, where you can create your own Christmas decorations from clay. Join us on the 13th and 20th of November, and unleash your inner sculptor!
29th October 2022
‘Living Life to the Full’
Dear Members and Friends,
‘Living Life to the Full’ - a series of talks
Here at Bedford House, we are dedicated to providing important learning and experiences that positively contribute to the wellbeing of our members. 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.
Coping with Cancer - November 2023
One in two people born after 1960 will experience cancer. This talk with Dr Qamar Abbas will provide you with accurate, valuable information to help us all approach cancer calmly, know how to possibly prevent it (38% of cancer cases are preventable, according to Cancer Research UK 2015), giving us all the facts we need to improve quality of life.
A Journey with Dementia - January 2023
Dr Qamar Abbas joins us once more to discuss Dementia. Dementia is simply not talked about enough. This talk aims to provide both people living with Dementia and their loved ones clear information and guidance on a person's typical journey from pre-diagnosis. Doctor Abbas will be giving information on how to delay onset, how to get diagnosed, and how to maintain the quality-of-life post-diagnosis.
Managing Diabetes - March 2023
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.
27th October 2022
Private Workshops and Events
Dear Members and Friends,
Looking for a private workshop for your loved ones? Or are you a business owner looking for an innovative experience, in a relaxing environment for your away day? Book a package at Bedford House and enjoy team-bonding activities and workshops.
We can help with our new private workshops and events!
We can create bespoke workshops and activities to match the needs of your team or family. Whether you’re looking for pottery, painting or yoga or Tai Chi, we’re here to create the perfect package for you!
We also run various exhibitions throughout the year. Want to have a private guided viewing of our Autumn Art Exhibition? Let us know what you’re looking for and we can arrange a personalised experience for your group.
Feel free to contact us to discuss your needs, and we can suggest activities to suit you. Contact Lykke on ceo@bedfordhouse.org.uk for more information.
We also offer gift vouchers, supplied in handcrafted cards, so you can let your loved ones or team members decide themselves!
25th October 2022
Introducing: Contemporary Dance
Dear Members and Friends,
We've got another new course for you! The amazing Rachel Newbury will be running a Contemporary Dance Course.
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). Rachel enjoys delivering a range of dance styles including Contemporary, Creative Ballet and Jazz and choreographing dances with people of all ages such as mature movers, encouraging positive mental health and maintaining strength and balance.
Contemporary Dance developed in the mid-twentieth century, much of the work coming out of North America through dancers such as Martha Graham, Merce Cunningham and Doris Humphrey. It is often considered to be a blend of techniques (including Ballet, Jazz and lyrical).
This session will involve coordination exercises, use of the spine, working in parallel and turned-out positions 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. Dancing in this way requires a lovely blend of brain and body coordination which will lead to a real sense of achievement.
This course will be running on Wednesdays from 13:00 - 14:00, beginning on the 2nd of November. This is a 6-week course running until the 7th of December.
Rachel is also running our new Seated Dance course.
Seated dance is an excellent way to build strength, balance, while remaining perfect for mature movers.
Here’s a lovely quote from a past participant:
“Seated dance is so much fun. Rachel is a lovely lady who is always smiling. It’s clear she loves what she does and makes us love it too! You can work at your own pace and never feel behind!” - David
If you’d try it before enrolling, join our free taster session on the 3rd of November, 13:15 - 14:15.
21st October 2022
Autumn Art Exhibition
Dear Members and Friends,
Come to our Autumn Art Exhibition!
Our amazing art tutors are exhibiting their work. You can join us at our private viewing on the 1st of November, 17:00 - 19:00 at Bedford House. Enjoy a glass of wine or a soft drink, and a chat about the wonderful art on display!
The work exhibited will include paintings, pottery, still life, botanical studies and sculptures.
You’ll be able to see the work of Esther Neslen, our incredible ceramicist and sculpture tutor, who has exhibited work at The Waterfront Gallery, The Mall Galleries, and is in the midst of a project with Enfield schools exploring identity, justice and clay. You’ll also see work by Katherine Poluck, our wonderful watercolour tutor, who has exhibited at the prestigious Annual Exhibition at Westminster Central Hall, and has her work published in ‘Forest Focus’.
But it doesn’t stop there!
Anna Bissett, Martin Chesterman, Anne Daniels, Tony Swan, and John Tookey (who all have similarly impressive credits!) are also lined up to exhibit amazing work.
19th October 2022
Winter at Bedford House
Dear Members and Friends,
Here at Bedford House we’re excited about all our Winter offerings. We hope you’ll get out of the cold this season and join us for some festive fun! We have a range of Winter Workshops, our annual Winter Craft Fair, and the opportunity to join our new volunteer group: The Bedford House Crafters!
Christmas Ceramics Workshop
Looking for some handmade Christmas gifts? Be more sustainable this year and get crafty with Esther Neslen! Join Esther on the 13th (create) and 20th (glaze) November. More information can be found here.
‘How Charles Dickens Invented Christmas’
This 3-week short course begins on the 21st November. Get ready to delve into the world of Charles Dickens, and learn how he became so synonymous with Christmas. More information can be found here.
Winter Craft Fair
Our annual Winter Craft Fair takes place on the 27th November. Come and enjoy live music, exciting stalls, a raffle and homemade cakes at Bedford House. Want to be part of our open mic, run a stall, donate raffle prizes, or volunteer on the day? Send an email to Clare on admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk.
Wreath-Making Workshop
Our wonderful tutor Anne Daniels is back with another wreath-making workshop! Create beautiful handmade wreaths and table decorations, and add personal touches through items, greenery from your own garden or even photos! Join Anne on the 10th December. More information can be found here.
The Bedford House Crafters
The Bedford House Crafters is a new volunteer fundraising craft group based at Bedford House. You’ll be working with a craft coordinator to create unique handmade items. Meet new friends, enjoy tea and biscuits and learn new skills with the Bedford House Crafters! Please send an expression of interest to Lykke at ceo@bedfordhouse.org.uk to find out more!
14th October 2022
Supporting Bedford House
Dear Members and Friends,
Could you support Bedford House? If you’ve got time or energy to spare, there are many ways to help us out!
Sign up to our open mic During our Winter Craft Fair, there’ll be the opportunity to showcase your singing, instrument playing, or even dancing! Whether you’re a virtuosic violinist or new to performing, we’d love to see you! Contact Clare by emailing admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk to discuss details.
Volunteer at the Winter Craft Fair Do you make an excellent cup of coffee? Or maybe you’re great at welcoming people. Whether you’d rather cut cake or sell raffle tickets, come and help us run our Winter Craft Fair! We’re looking for a range of volunteers. Let us know a bit about you and we’ll find you a role! Contact Lykke by emailing CEO@bedfordhouse.org.uk to discuss.
Bake some cakes Are you a bake-off fan? Do you make an excellent lemon drizzle? It is always exciting to try out donated cakes, from both classic to innovative recipes. We’re looking for bakers to donate cakes for our Winter Craft Fair! Don’t worry if you’re not an expert; we’d love to taste your very first cake! If you have any questions please email Clare on admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk
Join us at the Private View Our next art exhibition opens on 1 November. Join us 17:00 - 19:00 for the viewing and a glass of wine or soft drinks. Free to attend. More information coming soon.
Help our garden bloom Have you got some extra flower bulbs in your shed? Or could you pop some extra daffodil bulbs in your trolley next time you’re out shopping? Bring them along to Bedford House to help brighten up our garden. Our garden has tripled in space following the garden ‘reset’ so we’re aiming to create bursts of colour throughout the year! See how much our garden has transformed already here. Bulbs will be planted by the Gardening Volunteers. Any types and quantities of bulbs are welcome. Please drop them off in the bulb box in Reception. If you have any questions please contact Clare on admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk
Check out our eBay shop Our eBay shop has several interesting art books for sale! If you’re an art book collector looking for rare editions, it will definitely be worth checking out our library. Email the office to make an appointment or to receive a list of our art book collection. There is also currently an extensive selection of handicraft books and patterns available to purchase from the kitchen, and for a light read we have plenty of books to explore from as little as 50p each. Have a browse for your next read or crafting project! If you have any questions, please contact Clare on admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk
Send some greetings cards Looking for a handmade card? Our art classes and tutors have made some beautiful greetings cards, perfect for your loved ones. You can find our card shop on the first floor of Bedford House, or take a look at our website for our new all-season collection coming soon.
Join our volunteers At Bedford House we have many opportunities for volunteers. If you’re looking for a friendly environment where you can make a difference, look no further! You can join us in the office as an administrator, get back to nature with our gardeners, or get practical as a maintenance volunteer. Have you got a unique skill to offer? Or are you a professional with some spare time on your hands? Send us an email to discuss how you could help and the great benefits of volunteering. Take a look at the volunteering information on our website.
Become a Volunteer Craft Coordinator If you’re a great crafter, whether sewer, knitter or artist with an eye for creativity, you could lead the Bedford Crafters! We need someone to provide inspiring themes and prompts, experienced assistance and create a friendly, chatty atmosphere for our volunteer group. The Bedford Crafters will be a volunteer fundraising group, who will help us craft our way to a beautiful garden transformation! Please email an expression of interest to Lykke on ceo@bedfordhouse.org.uk. Want to join the Bedford Crafters? Look out for more information soon but feel free to send Lykke an expression of interest in the meantime.
Thank you to all who already support Bedford House. All efforts, large and small, are hugely appreciated.
12th October 2022
Introducing: Seated Dance!
Dear Members and Friends,
We’re delighted to announce a new course! We’ll now be running a Seated Dance Exercise course every Thursday. Join us for a free taster session on the 3rd November.
Seated dance exercise draws 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. These classes heavily incorporate music. Music enhances the atmosphere and encourages you to do more ‘reps’ than you realise! And of course, singing along is always welcome! Standing adaptations of some exercises are available for participants who can safely challenge themselves more. We’ve got a free taster session running on the 3rd November so you can try before signing up for the full term. Find our membership and enrolment forms and email them to enquiries@bedfordhouse.org.uk. Alternatively, come to reception for a printed copy or give us a ring on 0208 504 6668.
We hope to see you dancing in your seat soon!
10th October 2022
Mindfulness at Bedford House
Dear Members and Friends,
As winter draws in, we can all feel a little melancholic.
Here at Bedford House, we have several courses that can make Winter more mindful. Exercise can have a profound effect on not only our physical health, but our mental wellbeing. Choosing gentle, slow forms of exercise that make us more aware of how our bodies feel can be transformative. Not all exercise has to be fast and sweaty! Even the slowest of practices like Qi Gong and Tai Chi have been known to prevent illness.
We’re lucky enough at Bedford House to have a range of activities to promote mindfulness.
Qi Gong with Richard Edwards (Mondays at 13:15 - 14:15) - Taster sessions available!
Tai Chi with Richard Edwards (Fridays 11:15 - 12:15) - 1 space left!
Yoga with Jacqui Bonham (Tuesdays 9.30 - 11.00 and Wednesdays 10:00 - 11:30)
Gentle Yoga with Kim Doyle (Thursdays 10:00 - 11:30)
Guided Walks with Robert Levene (Mondays 10:00 - 11:30, Tuesdays 10:00 - 12:00, and Thursdays 10:00 - 12:00 and 12:30 - 13:45)
4th October 2022
‘How Charles Dickens invented Christmas’
Dear Members and Friends,
Join us for a 3-week course exploring how ‘A Christmas Carol’ still has the power to uplift generations, through its many adaptations from stage to screen. This course will be full of opportunities to have fun acting out scenes and get stuck into the serious issues at the heart of Dickens’ writing.
More information can be found on our website.
Call the office on 0208 504 6668 or feel free to email the office to book your space today.
27th November 2022
Winter Craft Fair
Dear Members and Friends,
The Bedford House Winter Craft Fair is just around the corner, just 2 months away. If you are interested in having a stall at the Craft Fair please fill in the membership form and stall application form. Then send them to Lykke Leszczynski on CEO@bedfordhouse.org.uk.
The Winter Craft Fair is taking place on Sunday 27th November 10:30 to 17:00 at Bedford House. Demand for stalls is usually high so do not delay registering to avoid disappointment. We look forward to seeing you either as a stallholder or as a visitor. Keep the date free. Check out our Winter Craft Fair page.
27th November 2022
Winter Craft Fair
Dear Members and Friends,
The Bedford House Winter Craft Fair is just around the corner, just 2 months away. If you are interested in having a stall at the Craft Fair please fill in the membership form and stall application form. Then send them to Lykke Leszczynski on CEO@bedfordhouse.org.uk.
The Winter Craft Fair is taking place on Sunday 27th November 10:30 to 17:00 at Bedford House. Demand for stalls is usually high so do not delay registering to avoid disappointment. We look forward to seeing you either as a stallholder or as a visitor. Keep the date free. Check out our Winter Craft Fair page.
10th September 2022
'Living Life To The Full' Series: Dementia
Dear Members and Friends,
Join our talks in the ‘Live Life to the Full’ Series that will enable attendants to better understand a condition and what it means both to those living with it and those caring for someone living with the condition. Understanding a situation means that one can make informed decisions, take action, and make changes at an early stage to ensure the best possible quality of life. Many conditions are common meaning that we are likely to encounter them either as the carer, a family member, or the person having the condition.
‘A journey with Dementia’
Friday 14 October 2022 10:30 £10 only incl refreshments
10:30 to 12:30 ‘A journey with Dementia’ with Dr Qamar Abbas
12:30 to 13:00 Light refreshments / lunch
13:00 to 15:00 ‘Home Instead’ Support and Care Organisation
Our first ‘Living Life to the Full’ talk will be on dementia, and we are very proud to welcome Qamar Abbas, Medical Director at St Clare Hospice to give a talk about 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 outside of a consulting room your questions on the talk topic of the day.
Dr Abbas’ talk will be followed by light refreshments and after lunch one of the Senior Managers from Home Instead will give a talk and answer your questions. Home Instead is a care and support provider that enables people to stay as long as possible in their own homes. Their customers vary in need from companionship to full care.
Dementia is a group of symptoms that affects mental cognitive tasks such as memory and reasoning. Dementia is an umbrella term that Alzheimer’s disease can fall under. It can occur due to a variety of conditions, the most common of which is Alzheimer’s disease. www.healthline.com . Worldwide 55 million people are living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. www.alz.org
How common is dementia? Research shows there are more than 850,000 people in the UK who have dementia. One in 14 people over the age of 65 have dementia, and the condition affects 1 in 6 people over 80. However, dementia can come as an early onset. The number of people with dementia is increasing because people are living longer. It is estimated that by 2025, the number of people with dementia in the UK will be more than 1 million. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dementia/about/ When including carers and family members dementia is likely to affect well over 2 million people.
More information is available on our website including a ‘prompt list’ from the Alzheimer’s Association.
To Book or for more information: Email Enquiries@BedfordHouse.org.uk or call 020 8504 6668
It is useful to gather questions beforehand, to ensure the session is tailored to answer your specific questions. You can also submit your question anonymously if you wish to CentreManager@BedfordHouse.org.uk .
Dr Abbas graduated from Dow Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan in 1993 after which he moved to the United Kingdom in 1995 to pursue higher training. His initial plan was to train in Cardiology but in 1999, he recognised his passion for holistic and palliative care for patients.
Dr Abbas started as a doctor at St Clare Hospice when its Inpatient Unit started in January 2000. He was appointed as Deputy Medical Director in 2006 and he has also been working as a consultant at the hospice since 2013. In November 2018 Qamar was appointed as Medical Director of St Clare Hospice. Dr Abbas is also a Consultant in Palliative Medicine at Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow; a Senior Clinical Tutor, School of Clinical Medicine at the University of Cambridge; an Associate Lecturer, School of Medicine at Anglia Ruskin University; a Visiting Honorary Lecturer at Muhammad Medical College in Pakistan and a member of Race Equity Committee, Association for Palliative Medicine of Great Britain and Ireland. Qamar is also a Trainer for junior doctors and an appraiser for the General Medical Council.
Dr Abbas has postgraduate qualifications in Palliative Medicine, Medical Ethics and Medical Education. He has published scientific papers and reviews and written chapters for several books. He has participated in regional and national committees for the development of Palliative Medicine and has contributed to the formulation of guidelines in palliative care.
7th September 2022
Our Statement On The Passing Of Her Majesty The Queen
Dear Members and Friends,
It is with deep respect and great sorrow that Bedford House Community Association marks the passing of HM the Queen, who died on 8 September 2022. Our sincere condolences are with the Royal Family at this sad time. As a mark of respect and our sadness Bedford House will be closed on the day of HM the Queen’s funeral.
S. Watson, Chair of the Board of Trustees
The Administration Office will email students prior to the day of closure with a reminder.
If you have any questions regarding the above, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
7th September 2022
Qigong – New Course - Free Taster Session At 13:15 – 14:15 Monday 12 September
Dear Members and Friends,
We are adding a new Qigong course to our Health & Fitness courses.
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. Consistent practice can entirely transform health, wellbeing and direction in life. It strongly activates self-healing and improves our ability to look inward and realize our true potential.
The taster session must be pre-booked on 020 8504 6668.
There are still places on:
Aerobics Mondays 19:30
Guided Forest Walks Tuesdays 10:00
Ballet Tuesdays 11:15 and 12:15
Keep Fit Tuesdays 10:00
Yoga Thursdays 10:00
Guided Forest Walks Thursdays 10:00
Pilates Fridays 9:45
Tai Chi Fridays 11:15
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding the above, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
7th September 2022
Garden Re-set – Fundraising: ‘Get Ready for Winter Crafting – Book Sale’ - Knitting, world embroidery, soft furnishings, etc’ and Currency De-Clutter.
DDear Members and Friends,
Gardening Volunteers - You have probably seen and enjoyed the front garden with all the lovely flowers and tidy presentation. Now that the flowerbeds have been established the ongoing maintenance of the front garden is kindly done by the Gardening Volunteer Team that meets fortnightly in the growing season and monthly in other months.
Join the Gardening Volunteer Team on the first Thursday of the month at 10:15 to 12:30. To express interest please contact Caroline in the Administration Office on 020 8504 6668 or email Enquiries@bedfordhouse.org.uk . The extra sessions during the growing season are likely to take place on the 3rd Thursday of the month.
Rear Garden Re-set - We are excited to be starting prep works in the rear garden. As you appreciate with any arts and crafts or DIY project the outcome is dependent on the prep work. The concept garden design was done in the spring (see design on the fundraising webpage) and we will shortly be working on the more formal plans and authorisations. Alongside this we are organising a ‘garden re-set’ across the property which entails removing brambles as high as 2m, shaving ivy off fences and tidying up the trees removing dead branches and dangerous overhang. Once we can actually see the fences any damaged or missing fence panels will be replaced or repaired. The garden re-set is scheduled to complete by end September, subject to weather. Subsequently, grass will be seeded on the newly discovered surfaces so that it will look neat until the next stages of the garden development. The cost of the garden re-set is £8,000.
We will be running a string of fundraising initiatives over the next few months to raise money for the garden re-set. We will not be able to move to the next stage until we have raised funds to cover the cost of the garden re-set.
We will also apply for grant funding but the outcome of these may not be available until 2023 and applications are not always successful.
The craft book sale is situated in the Reception area on the first floor, as is the bowl to deposit any Currency Donations. Please see the green posters displayed on site for more information on the Currency De-Clutter continued from the spring or go to BHCA News on the website and scroll down to the message from 1st June 2022.
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding the above, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
6th September 2022
Join The Administration Team At Bedford House
Dear Members and Friends,
Bedford House has a vacancy for a part time Administrator (approximately 20 hours per week) working across our opening hours to include some evenings and occasional weekend work. Please see the comprehensive job description. If you have any questions regarding this vacancy please contact Lykke, the Centre Manager on CentreManager@BedfordHouse.org.uk providing your telephone number for a call back.
To Apply:
Please fill in the application form and return to the Centre Manager together with your CV by Sunday 18 September 2022.
We look forward to hearing from you
Best wishes,
Lykke Leszczynski,
Centre Manager
26th August 2022
Official Summer Show Pictures Now Available Incl. Tai Chi Session
Dear Members and Friends,
July now seems like a long time ago, but why not take a moment to revisit the Summer Show.
It was an enjoyable day, one of the hottest days in July which allowed us to enjoy the Garden Café both under cover in the gazebos and ‘in the open’ on the lawn. There was something for everyone with hundreds of artworks on display, the artwork competition, live music, plant sale, face painting, and tombola just to name a few. We had Art in Action where visitors could have taster session in printmaking, pottery, Tai Chi, and other courses. See below pictures of our new Tai Chi tutor, Richard Edwards, doing a demonstration with visitors at the Summer Show.
Tai Chi combines deep breathing and relaxation with flowing movements. Originally developed as a martial art in 13th-century China, Tai Chi is today practised around the world as a health-promoting exercise. Tai Chi can be practiced at various levels of fitness and can be implemented in daily life. The main guiding principles of Tai Chi include the integration of mind with body, control of breathing, and movement. Tai Chi is suitable for most people including the less mobile due to its gentle movements. Tai Chi can be practiced in everyday clothes and comfortable, flat footwear.
Click here to see the summer show pictures.
Click here and scroll down to see our Tai Chi course.
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
25th August 2022
BHCA - Exploring Poetry, Guided Fitness Walks, Watercolours And More
Dear Members and Friends,
Join one of our new courses: Exploring Poetry, Guided Fitness Walks, or Keep Fit for All. As well as our returning favorite Watercolours class with Katherine, Handbuilding in clay with Esther Neslen and Ballet with Daniella Delerci.
What will you be doing next term? Stay active and enjoy the good company on one of our 40+ courses, most starting in September.
Some of our new courses
Enjoy the pleasure of reading and discussing a range of poetry with our new Exploring Poetry course taught by Lucy Wheeler explore different styles, forms, and writers. Learn critical analysis skills to understand how language, structure and form can be used by poets to create meaning. Supportive and friendly tuition with all abilities welcome. No experience necessary, just a desire to talk about literature!
The Guided Fitness Walks with Richard Edwards is a great opportunity to explore the local area while having a focus on health and fitness. The pace of the walks will be medium paced, stopping halfway for some stretching and some simple exercises. The aim of the walks is to be mentally present during the walk, being aware of how the body feels, whilst increasing your fitness.
Nordic walking sticks can be used, step counters and heart rate monitors are very good tools, especially walking up hills. The NHS recommends 150 minutes of weekly exercise. Richard has been training in gymnasiums for 40 years, and been a personal trainer for a range of ages from 20 to 70’s.
Some of our returning courses
Join Katherine for a relaxing and enjoyable watercolour class that will cover wet-on-wet and colour mixing techniques. Katherine demonstrates how to draw and paint these delicate forms in line and watercolour, capturing the unique light effects on petals, stems and other objects. All levels are welcome. whether you're keen to try something new or would like to improve your skills - this is a great way to do that and meet some like-minded people for a evening of fun.
Join Esther Neslen every Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday for Sculpture in Clay and Pottery. Learn and explore a variety of methods in 3D sculpture, and how to apply materials and techniques to decorate your finished work. Discover the pottery wheel, and hand-building techniques, including pinch building, slab building, coiling, modelling, and carving. You will learn how to use and combine techniques to develop your skills at your own pace, to bring to life your thoughts and ideas though individual teaching. No previous experience is needed, just a curiosity to explore and enjoy working with clay in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere.
Enrol now to secure a place on your favourite course or try something new. Please fill in a membership form and an enrolment form for us to process your enrolment.
If you are unsure about which course to enrol on try a Taster Session or two, subject to place availability. We have a wide selection of courses, from Pilates to Pottery. If you are thinking of trying something new, see our course programme for the full course list.
23rd August 2022
Other Activities at Bedford House
Dear Members and Friends,
I am pleased to welcome the two latest organisations providing regular activities at Bedford House: VRSTY (dance school) and W-M-A (Fitness and Women’s Street Self Defence training for adults of all ages). So, whether you want to learn how to diffuse situations and feel safer on the streets, or you know of children who want to dance, Bedford House is the place to go.
Below you will find the current ‘Other Activities’ taking place at Bedford House every week, with many organisations providing activities for children on a weekly basis.
12th August 2022
New Courses At BHCA For The 2022/23 Season!
Dear Members and Friends,
If you like exploring possibilities, discussion, and understanding the world around us then these courses are for you.
Planning for Change
Change is ever-present. Whether you are starting in a new job or retiring, personal circumstances change such as relationships start or end, children leaving for university or maybe returning back home after living away for a while, own health issues or those of family members, carer responsibilities or being cared for, etc. Together we will look at how change affects us mentally and physically and identify techniques and strategies to help us navigate new paths, as well as exploring potential options available and actions one might consider to facilitate the transition.
Whether imposed change by external factors or plan change this course will create a space for exploring. Read more ….
Exploring Poetry
Enjoy the pleasure of reading and discussing a range of poetry by exploring different styles, forms and writers. Learn critical analysis skills in order to understand how language, structure and form can be used by poets to create meaning. Supportive and friendly tuition with all abilities welcome. No experience necessary, just a desire to talk about literature! Read more …
Books can Change the World
Do you enjoy reading? This guided book club will explore fiction through a range of themes from mysteries and crime writing to dystopian novels and science fiction. The course will include much-loved classics such as Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’ alongside contemporary works, like Helen Fielding’s ‘Bridget Jones’s Diary’ and there will be opportunities to discuss your personal favourites too.
Tutors will provide a reading list and links to online second hand book shops to facilitate cost effective purchases.
Some of the books are also available as film versions for those who are either short of time or would like to see an on-screen interpretation of the book to bring to the discussion. It is a friendly and informal reading group focusing on the joys of reading, exploring, and friendly discussion. Read more …
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
11th August 2022
BHCA - Tai Chi, Keep Fit For All, And Guided Fitness Walks
Dear Members and Friends,
Join one of our new courses: Tai Chi, Guided Fitness Walks, or Keep Fit for All.
What will you be doing next term? Stay active and enjoy the good company on one of our 40+ courses, most starting in September.
Tai Chi combines deep breathing and relaxation with flowing movements. Originally developed as a martial art in 13th-century China, Tai Chi is today practised around the world as a health-promoting exercise. Tai Chi can be practiced at various levels of fitness and can be implemented in daily life. The main guiding principles of Tai Chi include the integration of mind with body, control of breathing, and movement
According to the NHS there are studies showing that Tai Chi can help reduce stress, improve posture, balance, and general mobility, and increase muscle strength in the legs. Stress affects many aspects of the body.
Tai Chi is suitable for most people including the less mobile due to its gentle movements. Tai Chi can be practiced in everyday clothes and comfortable, flat footwear.
Enrol now to secure a place on your favourite course or try something new. Please fill in a membership form and an enrolment form for us to process your enrolment.
If you are unsure about which course to enrol on try a Taster Session or two, subject to place availability. We have a wide selection of courses, from Pilates to Pottery. If you are thinking of trying something new, see our course programme for the full course list.
PS. Summer School 2022 courses and workshops are available throughout August: Yoga, Pilates, Ballet, Aerobics, Watercolours, Ceramics, and our new Family Fun/Intergenerational workshops in crafts, ceramics, and the natural environment (the natural environment workshop is mainly outdoors). See full Summer School programme. (Link below)
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
7th August 2022
Watercolours With Katherine + Other Summer School Activities
Dear Members and Friends,
Join Katherine for a relaxing and enjoyable watercolour workshop that will cover wet-on-wet and colour mixing techniques. On 10th & 17th August 2022, from 10:00 to 12:00. Katherine demonstrates how to draw and paint these delicate forms in line and watercolour, capturing the unique light effects on petals and stems. All levels are welcome. whether you're keen to try something new or would like to improve your skills - this is a great way to do that and meet some like-minded people for a morning of fun. Subject to weather the sessions will take place in the garden. If you would like to enrol please fill out and email an enrolment and membership form to admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk.
- See below for a piece made in Katherine's last workshop and other summer school dates.
Other summer school activities are available from aerobics to watercolours. If you have several generations wanting to do activities together we now offer family fun / Intergenerational activities where adults with child/ren can enjoy working together and exploring new activities.
If you have time you can enjoy a moment in the garden after your class. The gazebos are ready.
We look forward to seeing you.
Please note the Administration Office Summer opening hours 9:30 to 13:30, or by appointment (give us a ring on 020 8504 6668).
Summer School – What’s On
8 August Monday 19:30 to 20:30 Aerobics
9 August Tuesday 09:45 to 11:15 Yoga
10 August Wednesday 10:00 to 12:00 Watercolours – Painting Wildflowers and Garden Flowers
11 August Thursday 10:00 to 11:30 Gentle Yoga
12 August Friday 09:45 to 11:00 Pilates
12 August Friday 10:00 to 12:00 Dabbling in Craft - Family fun / Intergenerational
15 August Monday 11:30 to 12:30 Ballet
15 August Monday 12:30 to 13:30 Ballet
15 August Monday 10:00 to 12:00 Art & the Natural Environment – Family fun / Inter-generational
15 August Monday 19:30 to 20:30 Aerobics
16 August Tuesday 09:45 to 11:15 Yoga
17 August Wednesday 10:00 to 12:00 Watercolours – Painting Wildflowers and Garden Flowers
17 August Wednesday 10:00 to 12:00 Family fun / Intergenerational: Ceramics
18 August Thursday 10:00 to 11:30 Gentle Yoga
18 August Thursday 10:00 to 12:30 Ceramics – Pottery and Sculpture in Clay
19 August Friday 09:45 to 11:00 Pilates
Please see our website for more info regarding the Summer School and What’s On from 1 August to 2 September.
If you have any questions, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Best wishes.
BHCA Administration Team
4th August 2022
Bedford House Enrolment Open To The Public
Dear Members and Friends,
Enrolment is now open to the public.
Enrol now to secure a place on your favourite courses. You would need to fill out an enrolment form for us to process your enrolment.
If you are unsure about which course to enrol on try a Taster Session or two, subject to place availability. We have a wide selection of courses, from Pilates to Pottery. If you are thinking of trying something new, see our course programme for the full course list.
PS. Summer School 2022 courses and workshops are available throughout August: Yoga, Pilates, Ballet, Aerobics, Watercolours, Ceramics, and our new Family Fun/Intergenerational workshops in crafts, ceramics, and the natural environment (the natural environment workshop is mainly outdoors). See full Summer School programme. (Link below)
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
2nd August 2022
BHCA Summer School Has Started
Dear Members and Friends,
Summer school started on 1 August with 5 weeks of activities from aerobics to watercolours. If you have several generations wanting to do activities together we now offer Intergenerational activities where adults with child/ren can enjoy working together and exploring new activities.
If you have time you can enjoy a moment in the garden after your class. The gazebos are ready.
We look forward to seeing you.
Please note the Administration Office Summer opening hours 9:30 to 13:30, or by appointment (give us a ring on 020 8504 6668).
Summer School – What’s On
4 August Thursday 10:00 to 11:30 Gentle Yoga
4 August Thursday 10:00 to 12:30 Ceramics – Pottery and Sculpture in Clay
5 August Friday 09:45 to 11:00 Pilates
8 August Monday 11:30 to 12:30 Ballet
8 August Monday 12:30 to 13:30 Ballet
8 August Monday 10:00 to 12:00 Art & the Natural Environment – Inter-generational
8 August Monday 19:30 to 20:30 Aerobics
9 August Tuesday 09:45 to 11:15 Yoga
10 August Wednesday 10:00 to 12:00 Watercolours – Painting Wildflowers and Garden Flowers
11 August Thursday 10:00 to 11:30 Gentle Yoga
12 August Friday 09:45 to 11:00 Pilates
12 August Friday 10:00 to 12:00 Dabbling in Craft - Intergenerational
Please see our website for more info regarding the Summer School and What’s On from 1 August to 2 September.
If you have any questions, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Best wishes.
BHCA Administration Team
29th July 2022
Bedford House - Enrolment Reminder 2022-23 - Priority Enrolment Ends 31 July
Dear Members and Friends,
Enrolment is open for Term 1 courses.
Existing students have priority enrolment until 31 July 2022 on the courses they were already on in Term 3 this year.
The general public can enrol from Monday 1st August 2022 on existing courses and immediately on the new courses. Check out our 2022-23 programme.
Make sure to enrol promptly to secure a place on your favourite courses.
If you have any questions, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or enquiries@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668. Please note the Administration Office summer opening hours 9:30 to 13:30, or by appointment.
Staycationing? Join the Summer School 2022. Programme link below.
Best wishes.
BHCA Administration Team
26th July 2022
Staycation: BHCA Summer School Is Starting 1st August
Dear Members and Friends,
Summer school is starting on 1 August with 5 weeks of activities from aerobics to watercolours. If you have several generations wanting to do activities together we now offer Intergenerational activities where adults with child/ren can enjoy working together and exploring new activities.
If you have time you can enjoy a moment in the garden after your class. The gazebos are ready.
We look forward to seeing you.
Please note the Administration Office Summer opening hours 9:30 to 13:30, or by appointment (give us a ring on 020 8504 6668).
Summer School – What’s On
1 August Monday 19:30 to 20:30 Aerobics
2 August Tuesday 09:45 to 11:15 Yoga
2 August Tuesday 11:30 to 12:30 Ballet
2 August Tuesday 12:30 to 13:30 Ballet
4 August Thursday 10:00 to 11:30 Gentle Yoga
4 August Thursday 10:00 to 12:30 Ceramics – Pottery and Sculpture in Clay
5 August Friday 09:45 to 11:00 Pilates
8 August Monday 11:30 to 12:30 Ballet
8 August Monday 12:30 to 13:30 Ballet
8 August Monday 10:00 to 12:00 Art & the Natural Environment – Inter-generational
8 August Monday 19:30 to 20:30 Aerobics
9 August Tuesday 09:45 to 11:15 Yoga
10 August Wednesday 10:00 to 12:00 Watercolours – Painting Wildflowers and Garden Flowers
11 August Thursday 10:00 to 11:30 Gentle Yoga
12 August Friday 09:45 to 11:00 Pilates
12 August Friday 10:00 to 12:00 Dabbling in Craft - Intergenerational
Please see our website for more info regarding the Summer School and What’s On from 13 August to 2 September.
If you have any questions, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Best wishes.
BHCA Administration Team
21th July 2022
Summer Show 2022 Roundup Art Competition Winners
Dear Members and Friends,
Thank you to those of you who came to our Summer Show 2022 last Sunday. Over 200 visitors braved the heat and came to spend some time at the Show, admiring the art and engaging with the activities. The number of visitors keeps growing from event to event and Bedford House is slowly but surely getting better known in the community. You can help us with getting better known by spreading the word for instance when you speak to people in general and by sharing our social media posts.
Thank you to all those who supported the event with various sessions and donations.
For the first time in years we had 5 different kinds of Art in Action: Pottery wheel throwing, Still Life Drawing, Drawing and Painting, Printmaking, and Watercolours. A great success. You can find out more about our Arts and Crafts courses here.
We had interactive demonstrations by our new Tai Chi course tutor, and a dance routine from one of the space hirers who will be joining us in September with her Dance School. You can find out more about our Health and Fitness courses here.
An Open Mic attracted some wonderful performers which really made our day; a solo mandolin player and a recorder duo both from our membership, and a young pianist from Loughton Music School. We also enjoyed our favourite DarkLight jazz duo.
We are very grateful for the donations in kind to the Tigger Tombola, and for the delicious homemade cakes to the Garden Café.
Thank you to our supporters Matthew’s Plants and Waitrose.
Also, thank you for all the donations we received at the door, the highest entrance donations received to date.
The Garden Café was a great hit with the homemade cakes, and fresh strawberries and cream.
We launched the 2022-23 programme with over 45 courses. The enrolment stall had a steady stream of visitors throughout the day. Conveniently located opposite the Garden Café it was very comfortable to get the forms and fill them in whilst having a refreshment. Links below to the new programme and enrolment forms. During the summer the Administration office will be open to visitors 9:30 to 13:30.
Remember our summer school runs from 1st August to early September. Link below.
Our garden development stall was open to show off, and for you to provide feedback on, the new concept design for the garden. Now that the concept design has been launched you can find the design on the garden fundraising webpage.
The ‘pebble hunt and painting’ activity was a great success as was the paper plane making. Great new interactive initiatives.
If you didn’t fill in the Feedback Form on the day, you can still do that now. (Download here). Download the form and pop it in our postbox, or scan and email it back to CentreManager@BedfordHouse.org.uk. It would be helpful to have the filled in feedback forms returned by 31 July.
The art exhibition was a delight to view with over 135 artists exhibiting. More than 50 pieces of artwork had been submitted to the Art Competition 2022. Competition was steep and the submissions superb. Many congratulations to the winners in the 2-D and 3-D categories:
Tutors’ choice 2-D: Liz Hooker with ‘Maybe it’s because I’m a Londoner’
Public’s choice 2-D: Stephen Lloyd with ‘Seaview, Isle of Wight’
Tutors’ choice 3-D: Bill Flanagan with ‘Abstract Form’
Public’s choice 3-D: Debbie Myers with ‘The Woods are Lovely’
Thank you to Ian for successfully managing the exhibition logistics, art pieces, the Art Competition and associated practicalities.
It was good to see some of our hirers joining the day; Lily Learning Centre (tuition for primary school children) provided fun testing and fabulous face painting. Leigh Languages was on site with information about their language courses, as well as the above mentioned Dance School.
We have put up some informal photos on the Summer Show webpage. The professional photos with more detail of the art pieces will be uploaded as soon as possible.
If you have any questions, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Best wishes.
BHCA Administration Team
19th July 2022
Bedford House Enrolment Now Open For 2022-2023 Courses: 45+ Weekly Courses
Dear Members and Friends,
Enrolment is now open for courses starting September 2022. Follow the link below to the programme with 45+ weekly courses.
Existing students have priority booking until 31st July for courses they are already doing this year.
To secure a place you need to get the Enrolment form (1 page) and the Membership form (2 pages) to the Administration Office. You can get it to us by visiting us in person (1st Floor Reception and ring bell), email to Enquiries@BedfordHouse.org.uk or Royal Mail post (posting may take a while to arrive). You can also just pop the forms in our external letter box and give us a ring to pay.
Printed forms are available from Reception on 1st Floor.
We take card payments in person and over the telephone, but we need your forms before you can pay. You can also make a bank transfer (please let us know when you have done that as it takes a couple of days to appear on our bank statements and we want to secure your space).
For new members, or current members wanting to book on a different course to this year, enrolment starts on 1st August 2022. You can fill in the forms already and get them to us before 1st August. Then you are sure to be towards the front of the queue to enrol on your preferred course. We will then call you on 1st or 2nd August to take a payment.
Please contact the Administration Office if you have any queries on 020 8504 6668
PS Our Summer School 2022 starts on 1 August. You can dip in and out of the Summer Programme to suit your availability, and you can book one-off tasters to try something new. You must book in advance as courses will only run subject to adequate enrolment. However, you can join at short notice when the course is running, and subject to place availability.
We look forward to seeing you at one of our courses.
17th July 2022
Enrolment - Term 1
Dear Members and Friends,
Enrolment is now open for Term 1 courses starting September 2022. Make sure to enrol at our Summer Show today, 17th July, to secure a place on your favourite courses. Prompt enrolment means you avoid missing sessions or full classes. If you can't make it to the Summer Show, you can enrol from Monday 19th July.
Bring a friend! Spread the word!
If you have any questions, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
16th July 2022
BHCA Summer Show Sunday 17 July
Dear Members and Friends,
Only 1 days to go to the Summer Show. Bring a friend! Spread the word!
The garden is quite shady and our Garden Café has 4-5 gazebos. Lots of chilled water will be available throughout the day. It is a great place to relax in the shade with homemade cake, strawberries and cream.
Activities on the Summer Show day
Spot the Dot - Public Voting on the Art Competition, enjoy live music, performances in the Open Mic, relax in the Garden Café with tea/coffee and homemade cakes, meet our tutors, try mini taster sessions from our courses (Art in Action: Still Life Drawing, pottery wheel, hand printmaking, drawing and painting, Tai Chi, etc), the Garden Development Reveal, tombola, stalls, and demonstrations by the organisations based at Bedford House including by ‘Warrior Martial Art’, face painting, hunt and paint pebbles, and much more. More details on the Summer Show webpage as they become available. We will keep adding to the programme as activities are confirmed.
For those who wish to be part of the cake competition please bring your cake to a designated table near the café by 11:30.
Homemade cakes are always in huge demand in our Garden Café. If you are able to donate a cake please bring it to the Garden Café as early on the 17 July as possible.
Bring a friend! Spread the word!
15th July 2022
BHCA Summer Show Sunday 17 July
Dear Members and Friends,
Only 2 days to go to the Summer Show. Bring a friend! Spread the word!
The garden is quite shady and our Garden Café has 4-5 gazebos. Lots of chilled water will be available throughout the day. It is a great place to relax in the shade with homemade cake, strawberries and cream.
Activities on the Summer Show day
Spot the Dot - Public Voting on the Art Competition, enjoy live music, performances in the Open Mic, relax in the Garden Café with tea/coffee and homemade cakes, meet our tutors, try mini taster sessions from our courses (Art in Action: Still Life Drawing, pottery wheel, hand printmaking, drawing and painting, Tai Chi, etc), the Garden Development Reveal, tombola, stalls, and demonstrations by the organisations based at Bedford House including by ‘Warrior Martial Art’, face painting, hunt and paint pebbles, and much more. More details on the Summer Show webpage as they become available. We will keep adding to the programme as activities are confirmed.
For those who wish to be part of the cake competition please bring your cake to a designated table near the café by 11:30.
Homemade cakes are always in huge demand in our Garden Café. If you are able to donate a cake please bring it to the Garden Café as early on the 17 July as possible.
Bring a friend! Spread the word!
14th July 2022
Summer School 2022 Programme
Dear Members and Friends,
Our Summer School 2022 programme is available and enrolment is open.
You will find a great selection of activities running throughout August. You can dip in and out of the Summer School programme, try something different, or fit in some sessions around your holiday dates. Please note you must book and pay in advance as only sessions with adequate enrolment will run.
Looking after children in the summer? Try our brand new Inter-generational workshops where you can all work together under guidance of a tutor.
Intergenerational Activities:
Ceramics; Dabbling in Crafts; Art & the Natural Environment
Physical Activities:
Yoga; Pilates; Ballet; Aerobics
Arts and Crafts Activities:
Watercolours: Painting Wildflowers & Garden Flowers, Ceramics: Pottery and Sculpture in Clay; and Sculpture in Clay – Life Model Portraits;
If you have any questions regarding Summer School, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Tutors for next academic year
We are currently planning activities for the next academic year, and are looking for tutors to teach on a range of new courses some of which are listed below. If you know of anyone who may be interested in becoming a tutor please forward the email to them and/or let me know.
Please feel free to suggest new courses of interest not listed below. Please email me on the usual address CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk with your suggestions.
Thank you.
Music Appreciation
Singing – Can’t sing to Can sing journey
British Sign Language for every day
Bridge
Portuguese
Intergenerational Learning – Portuguese
Intergenerational Learning – Spanish
Intergenerational Learning - Turkish
Intergenerational Learning - Yoga
Intergenerational Learning – Art
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
12th July 2022
Chill At The BHCA Summer Show Sunday 17 July
Dear Members and Friends,
Only 5 days to go to the Summer Show. Chill in the garden under the gazebos after your art viewing with cool live music, ice lollies and iced water! Bring a friend! Spread the word!
You can also be part of the community event and get involved with the Summer Show / Open Day
If you are interested in performing or helping out at the summer show please contact Lykke, Centre Manager, on centremanager@bedfordhouse.org.uk.
Open Mic Performers required - we look forward to enjoying your music and/or song, tap dancing, ballet or similar performance.
Volunteer Helpers required for various stalls such as Garden Café, tombola etc. There will be more than one person staffing each stall so please don’t worry about not knowing what to do. You will be supported.
Homemade cakes are always in huge demand in our Garden Café. If you are able to donate a cake please bring it to the Garden Café as early on the 17 July as possible, or to the Administration Office on the Friday before.
Curiosities, Art, Art books, Art Supplies, and items for the tombola can be donated 4-13 July. Please take your items to the Reception area on the 1st floor and ring the bell. (We are unable to accept general bric-a-brac and non-art books).
For those who wish to be part of the cake competition please bring your cake to a designated table near the café by 11:30
Activities on the Summer Show day
Spot the Dot - Public Voting on the Art Competition, enjoy live music, performances in the Open Mic, relax in the Garden Café with tea/coffee and homemade cakes, meet our tutors, try mini taster sessions from our courses (Art in Action: Life Drawing, pottery wheel, hand printmaking, drawing and painting, Tai Chi, etc), the Garden Development Reveal, tombola, stalls, and demonstrations by the organisations based at Bedford House including by ‘Warrior Martial Art’, face painting, hunt and paint pebbles, and much more. More details on the Summer Show webpage as activities are confirmed. So far the Programme looks as follows, but may still change:
Activities Programme
10:30 Summer Show / Open Day 2022 starts
10:30 Various stalls open throughout: Garden Café, Pebble hunt and paint, Paper Plane making, Garden Development Info, Tigger Tombola, Feedback, Enrolment, ‘Plentiful Plants’ & ‘Treasure Trove’, Meet our Hirers info stall.
10:45 Face painting in and/or outside room 7
10:45 Open Mic - Gazebo
11:00 to 12:00 Still Life Drawing with Ron in Room 2
11:00 to 12:30 Watercoloring with Katherine in the Tigger Tombola Gazebo
11:30 Open Mic - Gazebo
11:45 Official Launch of the new Fabulous Front Flowerbed - Gazebo
12:00 to 15:00 Live Music – Darklight - Gazebo
12:00 to 13:00 Still Life Drawing with Ron in Room 2 – 1-hour session
12:30 to 13:30 Drawing with Tony in room 2 – 1-hour sessions
12:30 Bedford House Bake Off Public voting ends
13:00 Bedford House Bake Off Announcement
13:30 to 14:30 Painting with Tony in room 2 – 1-hour sessions
13:30 to 17:00 Watercoloring with Katherine in the Tigger Tombola Gazebo
14:00 to 15:00 Pottery Wheel with Martin and Mary in rear Pottery – 15-minute sessions
14:30 to 15:30 Printmaking by hand with Anne in room 1
15:00 Spot-the-Dot Art Competition - Public Voting ends
15:00 to 16:00 Pottery Wheel with Martin and Mary in rear Pottery – 15-minute sessions
15:00 to 15:15 Warrior Martial Arts demonstration in garden
15:30 to 16:30 Printmaking by hand with Anne in room 1
15:30 to 15:45 Tai Chi interactive Demo with Richard
16:00 Announcements of the Public vote of the Art Competition
17:00 Summer Show / Open Day ends – Thank you for coming.
Thank you to our sponsors:
Waitrose | Members of Bedford House |
Bring a friend! Spread the word!
8th July 2022
BHCA Summer Show Sunday 17 July 2022 (10:30 To 17:00)
Dear Members and Friends,
Only 9 days to go to the Summer Show. Bring a friend! Spread the word!
You can also be part of the community event and get involved with the Summer Show / Open Day
If you are interested in performing or helping out at the summer show please contact Lykke, Centre Manager, on centremanager@bedfordhouse.org.uk.
Open Mic Performers required - we look forward to enjoying your music and/or song, tap dancing, ballet or similar performance.
Volunteer Helpers required for various stalls such as Garden Café, tombola etc. There will be more than one person staffing each stall so please don’t worry about not knowing what to do. You will be supported.
Homemade cakes are always in huge demand in our Garden Café. If you are able to donate a cake please bring it to the Garden Café as early on the 17 July as possible, or to the Administration Office on the Friday before.
Curiosities, Art, Art books, Art Supplies, and items for the tombola can be donated 4-13 July. Please take your items to the Reception area on the 1st floor and ring the bell. (We are unable to accept general bric-a-brac and non-art books).
Activities on the Summer Show day
Spot the Dot - Public Voting on the Art Competition, enjoy live music, performances in the Open Mic, relax in the Garden Café with tea/coffee and homemade cakes, meet our tutors, try mini taster sessions from our courses (Art in Action: Life Drawing, pottery wheel, hand printmaking, drawing and painting, Tai Chi, etc), the Garden Development Reveal, tombola, stalls, and demonstrations by the organisations based at Bedford House including by ‘Warrior Martial Art’, face painting, hunt and paint pebbles, and much more. More details on the Summer Show webpage as they become available. We will keep adding to the programme as activities are confirmed.
For those who wish to be part of the cake competition please bring your cake to a designated table near the café by 11:30.
Bring a friend! Spread the word!
6th July 2022
BHCA Summer Show Sunday 17 July 2022 (10:30 To 17:00)
Dear Members and Friends,
Get involved with the Summer Show / Open Day
If you are interested in performing or helping out at the summer show please contact Lykke, Centre Manager, on centremanager@bedfordhouse.org.uk.
Open Mic Performers required - we look forward to enjoying your music and/or song, tap dancing, ballet or similar performance.
Volunteer Helpers required for various stalls such as Garden Café, tombola etc. There will be more than one person staffing each stall so please don’t worry about not knowing what to do. You will be supported.
Homemade cakes are always in huge demand in our Garden Café. If you are able to donate a cake please bring it to the Garden Café as early on the 17 July as possible, or to the Administration Office on the Friday before.
Curiosities, Art, Art books, Art Supplies, and items for the tombola can be donated 4-13 July. Please take your items to the Reception area on the 1st floor and ring the bell. (We are unable to accept general bric-a-brac and non-art books).
Reusable items for the ‘Recycled Art Factory’
Recycle/reuse your Recycling! Donate your clean bits and bobs, milk plastic bottles and tops, kitchen roll cardboard cores, fruit/vegetable netting, newspapers, (only domestic volumes please). Please bring your bag of items to the Reception Area on the 1st Floor by Thursday 14 July.
Activities on the Summer Show day
Spot the Dot - Public Voting on the Art Competition, enjoy live music, performances in the Open Mic, relax in the Garden Café with tea/coffee and homemade cakes, strawberries and cream, quiche, summer soup, meet our tutors, try mini taster sessions from our courses (Art in Action: Life Drawing, pottery wheel, hand printmaking, drawing, painting, Tai Chi, etc), the Garden Development Reveal, Tigger Tombola, stalls, and demonstrations by the organisations based at Bedford House including by ‘Warrior Martial Art’, face painting, hunt and paint pebbles, and much more. More details on the Summer Show webpage as they become available. We will keep adding to the programme as activities are confirmed.
For those who wish to be part of the Bedford House Bake Off - Cake Competition please bring your cake to a designated table near the café by 11:30.
You can buy cash or exchange notes for cash in the enrolment stall if you have run out of change.
Enrol for 2022/23 courses and the Summer School 2022.
Bring a friend! Spread the word! Help Celebrate 75 years!
1st July 2022
Summer School And Next Academic Year Tutor Recruitment
Dear Members and Friends,
Our Summer School 2022 programme is available and enrolment is open.
You will find a great selection of activities running throughout August. You can dip in and out of the Summer School programme, try something different, or fit in some sessions around your holiday dates. Please note you must book and pay in advance as only sessions with adequate enrolment will run.
Looking after children in the summer? Try our brand new Inter-generational workshops where you can all work together under guidance of a tutor.
Intergenerational Activities:
Ceramics; Dabbling in Crafts; Art & the Natural Environment
Physical Activities
Yoga; Pilates; Ballet; Aerobics
Arts and Crafts Activities
Ceramics: Pottery and Sculpture in Clay; Sculpture in Clay – Life Model Portraits; Watercolours: Painting Wildflowers & Garden Flowers
If you have any questions regarding Summer School, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Tutors for next academic year
We are currently planning activities for the next academic year, and are looking for tutors to teach on a range of new courses some of which are listed below. If you know of anyone who may be interested in becoming a tutor please forward the email to them and/or let me know.
Please feel free to suggest new courses of interest not listed below. Please email me on the usual address CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk with your suggestions.
Thank you.
Music Appreciation
Writing Fiction and/or Memories
Singing – Can’t sing to Can sing journey
Pétanque
Fitness Men or Mixed
Health and Wellbeing Seminars
British Sign Language for every day
Bridge
Intergenerational Learning – Portuguese
Intergenerational Learning – Spanish
Intergenerational Learning - Turkish
Intergenerational Learning - Yoga
Intergenerational Learning – Art
We look forward to hearing from you.
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
30th June 2022
BHCA Summer Show Sunday 17 July 2022 10:30 To 17:00
Dear Members and Friends,
Get involved with the Summer Show / Open Day
If you are interested in performing or helping out at the summer show please contact Lykke, Centre Manager, on centremanager@bedfordhouse.org.uk.
Open Mic Performers required - we look forward to enjoying your music and/or song, tap dancing, ballet or similar performance.
Volunteer Helpers required for various stalls such as Garden Café, tombola etc. There will be more than one person staffing each stall so please don’t worry about not knowing what to do. You will be supported.
Homemade cakes are always in huge demand in our Garden Café. If you are able to donate a cake please bring it to the Garden Café as early on the 17 July as possible, or to the Administration Office on the Friday before.
Curiosities, Art, Art books, Art Supplies, and items for the tombola can be donated 4-13 July. Please take your items to the Reception area on the 1st floor and ring the bell. (We are unable to accept general bric-a-brac and non-art books).
Activities on the Summer Show day
Spot the Dot - Public Voting on the Art Competition, enjoy live music, performances in the Open Mic, relax in the Garden Café with tea/coffee and homemade cakes, meet our tutors, try mini taster sessions from our courses (Art in Action: Life Drawing, pottery wheel, hand printmaking, drawing and painting, Tai Chi, etc), the Garden Development Reveal, tombola, stalls, and demonstrations by the organisations based at Bedford House including by ‘Warrior Martial Art’, face painting, hunt and paint pebbles, and much more. More details on the Summer Show webpage as they become available. We will keep adding to the programme as activities are confirmed.
For those who wish to be part of the cake competition please bring your cake to a designated table near the café by 11:00.
Bring a friend! Spread the word!
30th June 2022
BHCA Summer Show Sunday 17 July 2022 10:30 To 17:00
Dear Members and Friends,
Get involved with the Summer Show / Open Day
If you are interested in performing or helping out at the summer show please contact Lykke, Centre Manager, on centremanager@bedfordhouse.org.uk.
Open Mic Performers required - we look forward to enjoying your music and/or song, tap dancing, ballet or similar performance.
Volunteer Helpers required for various stalls such as Garden Café, tombola etc. There will be more than one person staffing each stall so please don’t worry about not knowing what to do. You will be supported.
Homemade cakes are always in huge demand in our Garden Café. If you are able to donate a cake please bring it to the Garden Café as early on the 17 July as possible, or to the Administration Office on the Friday before.
Curiosities, Art, Art books, Art Supplies, and items for the tombola can be donated 4-13 July. Please take your items to the Reception area on the 1st floor and ring the bell. (We are unable to accept general bric-a-brac and non-art books).
Activities on the Summer Show day
Spot the Dot - Public Voting on the Art Competition, enjoy live music, performances in the Open Mic, relax in the Garden Café with tea/coffee and homemade cakes, meet our tutors, try mini taster sessions from our courses (Art in Action: Life Drawing, pottery wheel, hand printmaking, drawing and painting, Tai Chi, etc), the Garden Development Reveal, tombola, stalls, and demonstrations by the organisations based at Bedford House including by ‘Warrior Martial Art’, face painting, hunt and paint pebbles, and much more. More details on the Summer Show webpage as they become available. We will keep adding to the programme as activities are confirmed.
For those who wish to be part of the cake competition please bring your cake to a designated table near the café by 11:00.
Bring a friend! Spread the word!
29th June 2022
Garden Development Project – Fabulous Front
Dear Members and Friends,
We are excited to let you know that the front garden transformation has now been completed. It looks amazing and we owe a massive thank you to Joseph Gibson at www.JosephGibsonDesign.co.uk and his friendly team for not only removing literally tons of clay, using the rotator, nourishing and reviving the soil, selecting and planting durable and environmentally friendly plants, they are also ensuring the plants are watered every evening whilst the plants are settling in.
We are still processing the currency so we are unable to give you a financial update but we expect to be able to do so by mid or end of July.
The currency de-clutter has been very successful and we can see you are all still working on clearing out in those drawers. Thank you so much for all your donations which are gratefully received. We are keeping the collection open for the summer.
You can see how the flowerbed transformation evolved from start to finish on the fundraising webpage.
A reminder also that the Gardening Volunteer Team is next meeting on Thursday 7 July at 10:15, supervised by Caroline.
See the Fundraising webpage for more information regarding gardening dates.
26th June 2022
Working At Bedford House - Tutor Recruitment
Dear Members and Friends,
We are currently planning activities for the next academic year and Summer, and are looking for tutors to teach on a range of new courses some of which are listed below. If you know of anyone who may be interested in becoming a tutor please forward the email to them and/or let me know.
Please feel free to suggest new courses of interest not listed below. Please email me on the usual address CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk with your suggestions.
Thank you.
Music Appreciation
Literature Appreciation tutor / Book Club facilitator
Writing Fiction and/or Memories
Singing – Can’t sing to Can sing journey
Tai Chi
Pétanque
Fitness Men or Mixed
Health and Wellbeing Seminars
British Sign Language for every day
Bridge
Intergenerational Learning – Portuguese
Intergenerational Learning – Spanish
Intergenerational Learning - Turkish
Intergenerational Learning - Yoga
Intergenerational Learning – Art
I look forward to hearing from you.
26th June 2022
Working At Bedford House - Tutor Recruitment
Dear Members and Friends,
We are currently planning activities for the next academic year and Summer, and are looking for tutors to teach on a range of new courses some of which are listed below. If you know of anyone who may be interested in becoming a tutor please forward the email to them and/or let me know.
Please feel free to suggest new courses of interest not listed below. Please email me on the usual address CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk with your suggestions.
Thank you.
Music Appreciation
Literature Appreciation tutor / Book Club facilitator
Writing Fiction and/or Memories
Singing – Can’t sing to Can sing journey
Tai Chi
Pétanque
Fitness Men or Mixed
Health and Wellbeing Seminars
British Sign Language for every day
Bridge
Intergenerational Learning – Portuguese
Intergenerational Learning – Spanish
Intergenerational Learning - Turkish
Intergenerational Learning - Yoga
Intergenerational Learning – Art
I look forward to hearing from you.
24th June 2022
BHCA Summer Show Sunday 17 July 2022 10:30 To 17:00
Dear Members and Friends,
You are cordially invited to the annual Summer Show / Open Day 2022 where students showcase their works. This year the event is bigger and better than ever before and with more activities for all ages, as we are celebrating the 75th anniversary of Bedford House.
Enjoy live music, perform in the Open Mic, relax in the Garden Café with tea/coffee and homemade cakes, try mini taster sessions from our courses (Art in Action: Life Drawing, pottery wheel, hand printmaking, etc) and enjoy demonstrations by the organisations based at Bedford House, face painting, hunt and paint pebbles, and much more. More details on the Summer Show webpage as they become available. We will keep adding to the programme as activities are confirmed.
Get involved: This year there will also be an Open Mic and we look forward to enjoying your music and song too. Please contact Lykke, Centre Manager, if you are interested in performing on centremanager@bedfordhouse.org.uk.
Homemade cakes are always in huge demand in our Garden Café. If you are able to donate a cake please bring it to the Garden Café as early on the 17 July as possible, or to the Administration Office on the Friday before.
Curiosities, Art, Art books, Art Supplies can be donated 4-13 July. Please take your items to the Reception area on the 1st floor and ring the bell. (We are unable to accept general bric-a-brac and non-art books).
For those who wish to be part of the cake competition please bring your cake to a designated table near the café by 12:00.
Bring a friend. Spread the word!
23rd June 2022
David Harper leaving
Dear Members and Friends,
David Harper, Caretaker, is retiring on 8 July, after more than a decade of dedicated service with Bedford House.
If you wish to sign his card or contribute to a collection please contact your tutor or the Administration Office. Tutors can collect the card so that students can sign it during their class.
David has requested not to have a leaving do, but you can meet him on his rounds on Thursdays until 8 July.
We will miss him and wish him well in his retirement.
Steven, previously Deputy Caretaker, will be taking on the Caretaker role.
We welcome Steven and look forward to working with him.
P.S Join us at the Summer Show / Open Day 2022 on 17 July 10:30 to 17:00. Lots of activities for all ages. See our webpage for more information
21st June 2022
Local Events In June And July
Dear Members and Friends,
A reminder that our Summer School 2022 programme is available and enrolment is open.
You will find a great selection of activities running throughout August. You can dip in and out of the Summer School programme, try something different, or fit in some sessions around your holiday dates. Please note you must book and pay in advance as only sessions with adequate enrolment will run.
Looking after children in the summer? Try our brand new Intergenerational workshops where you can all work together under guidance of a tutor.
Intergenerational Activities
Ceramics
Dabbling in Crafts
Art & the Natural Environment
Physical Activities
Yoga
Pilates
Ballet
Aerobics
Arts and Crafts Activities
Ceramics: Pottery and Sculpture in Clay
Sculpture in Clay – Life Model Portraits
Watercolours: Painting Wildflowers & Garden Flowers
If you have any questions regarding Summer School, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
16th June 2022
BHCA Summer School 2022
Dear Members and Friends,
A reminder that our Summer School 2022 programme is available and enrolment is open.
You will find a great selection of activities running throughout August. You can dip in and out of the Summer School programme, try something different, or fit in some sessions around your holiday dates. Please note you must book and pay in advance as only sessions with adequate enrolment will run.
Looking after children in the summer? Try our brand new Intergenerational workshops where you can all work together under guidance of a tutor.
Intergenerational Activities
Ceramics
Dabbling in Crafts
Art & the Natural Environment
Physical Activities
Yoga
Pilates
Ballet
Aerobics
Arts and Crafts Activities
Ceramics: Pottery and Sculpture in Clay
Sculpture in Clay – Life Model Portraits
Watercolours: Painting Wildflowers & Garden Flowers
If you have any questions regarding Summer School, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
14th June 2022
Local Events -Hollistic Fair And Others
Dear Members and Friends,
There are various events happening around the local area in June and July. The Holistic Fair this Saturday, St. John’s Annual Fair the following Saturday and our much loved Summer Show on the 17th July. See our local events and summer show page for details.
Holistic Fair hosted by Bedford House – Saturday 18 June 11:00 to 17:00
Stalls, food, fun, live music and mini taster sessions. Food stalls in the garden. FREE ENTRY for under 16's and £5 tickets for all others. Contact @gaia_shakti for tickets.
Yoga, Pilates, Massage therapy, Crystals, Healing therapies, Organic skincare etc.
Gaia Shakti - Home | Facebook https://www.facebook.com/GaiaShaktiHolisticFair/
Gaia Shakti (@gaia_shakti) • Instagram photos and videos
St. John’s Annual Fair at St. John’s Church in the High Road on Saturday - 25 June 14:00 to 17:00
More info to follow
Bedford House Summer Show - Sunday 17 July 10:30 to 17:00
Art Exhibition by 100+ artists, Public Vote Art Competition, Art for Sale, Garden Café, Pebble Hunt, Face Painting, Paper plane folding, Art in Action, Demos and stalls by our inhouse organisations, Garden Development stall, Live Music and much more … Save the day. Celebrating 75 years.
If you have any questions, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
11th June 2022
Summer Show 2022
Dear Members and Friends,
You are cordially invited to the annual Summer Show 2022 where students showcase their works. This year the event is bigger and better than ever before and with more activities for all ages, as we are celebrating the 75th anniversary of Bedford House.
You can relax in the Garden Café with tea/coffee and homemade cakes, try mini taster sessions from our courses and enjoy demonstrations by the organisations based at Bedford House, hunt pebbles, have your face painted, make paper planes. More details on the Summer Show webpage as they become available. We will keep adding to the programme as activities are confirmed.
Get involved: This year there will also be an Open Mic and we look forward to enjoying your music and song too. Please contact Lykke, Centre Manager, if you are interested in performing on centremanager@bedfordhouse.org.uk.
Homemade cakes are always in huge demand in our Garden Café. If you are able to donate a cake please bring it to the Garden Café as early on the 17 July as possible, or to the Administration Office on the Friday before.
For those who wish to be part of the cake competition please bring your cake to a designated table near the café by 12:00.
Bring a friend. Spread the word!
9th June 2022
Painting Trees With Katherine And Other Workshops
Dear Members and Friends,
We have a few more space left on our Painting Trees workshop. Join Katherine for a relaxing and enjoyable watercolour workshop that will cover wet-on-wet and colour mixing techniques. Katherine demonstrates how to draw and paint these delicate forms in line and watercolour, capturing the unique light effects on trunks and branches. All levels are welcome. whether you're keen to try something new or would like to improve your skills - this is a great way to do that and meet some like-minded people for a morning of fun! See the example images below.
Painting Trees in Watercolour with Katherine Poluck
25th June 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00 - £35
BHCA Pop-Up Choir with Davida Robinson
2nd July 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00 £25
'Let your heart sing' Singing is good for the mind body and soul and is even better with others!
Join Davida Robinson (choir leader and music teacher) and become part of an exciting musical morning.
Enjoy creating harmonies and learning great songs which will then be performed at the end of the session to family and friends!
No previous experience or ability to read music necessary, just a desire to sing!
Jubilee Series - “Street Party” - Frieze Workshop with Anna Bisset
2nd July 2022 - 10:00 to 15:00 - £65 (A clothed model will be present at the workshop)
The aims of this workshop are to give students the experience of working from the live model (clothed), to show them how to create a large frieze out of a collection of different drawings and to let students try working on one piece of artwork in a group. So group-work is the overall aim, which is a lot of fun!
Paint like Monet with Jason Rose 9th July 2021 - 10:00 - 13:00 - £35
Learn some of the impressionistic landscape painting techniques used by the great French Impressionist Claude Monet. Using interactive acrylic painting demonstrations Jason will show you how to capture light and texture, how to mix realistic foliage colours, how to create the illusion of detail and many other things.
You'll have a complete Monet style painting by the end of the session.
If you have any questions regarding our workshops, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
8th June 2022
BHCA Summer School 2022 programme
Dear Members and Friends,
The Bedford House Summer School 2022 programme is now available and enrolment is open.
You will find a great selection of activities running throughout August. You can dip in and out of the Summer School programme, try something different, or fit in some sessions around your holiday dates. Please note you must book and pay in advance as only sessions with adequate enrolment will run.
Looking after children in the summer? Try our brand new Intergenerational workshops where you can all work together under guidance of a tutor.
Intergenerational Activities
Ceramics
Dabbling in Crafts
Art & the Natural Environment
Physical Activities
Yoga
Pilates
Ballet
Aerobics
Arts and Crafts Activities
Ceramics: Pottery and Sculpture in Clay
Sculpture in Clay – Life Model Portraits
Watercolours: Painting Wildflowers & Garden Flowers
If you have any questions regarding Summer School, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
1st June 2022
Do You Have Any Spare Foreign Travel Money, Or UK Coins Or Notes?
Dear Members and Friends,
We have had such a positive reaction to our foreign currencies fundraiser, and we would like to thank all the members who have donated. We are still collecting, so feel free to pop in within our office hours (closed until Monday 6 June). Donate any foreign or UK coins and notes to the Garden Development Project at Bedford House! In or out of circulation currencies from the whole world including UK are welcome.
Put to good use all those coins and notes that are gathering dust at the bottom of a drawer. Bedford House can access an exchange facility of odd coins and notes, foreign or UK, even if they are no longer in circulation. Don’t worry about if the coins and notes are valid or not. If in doubt, just donate the coins / notes and Bedford House will sort out the rest. All donations go to the Fabulous Front Garden Project. Collection pot in Reception, 1st Floor. We will provide an update regarding the amount of funds raised as soon as they have been converted into current pounds. However, the feeling is that we are getting close to our target for the Fabulous Front …
Any surplus donated will go towards a Petanque Lane. See our Fundraising webpage for more info.
31st May 2022
Painting Trees With Katherine And Other Workshops
Dear Members and Friends,
Join Katherine for a relaxing and enjoyable watercolour workshop that will cover wet-on-wet and colour mixing techniques. On 25th June 2022, from 10:00 to 13:00. Katherine demonstrates how to draw and paint these delicate forms in line and watercolour, capturing the unique light effects on trunks and branches. All levels are welcome. whether you're keen to try something new or would like to improve your skills - this is a great way to do that and meet some like-minded people for a morning of fun! See the example images below.
Painting Trees in Watercolour with Katherine Poluck
25th June 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00 - £35
BHCA Pop-Up Choir with Davida Robinson
2nd July 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00 £25
'Let your heart sing' Singing is good for the mind body and soul and is even better with others!
Join Davida Robinson (choir leader and music teacher) and become part of an exciting musical morning.
Enjoy creating harmonies and learning great songs which will then be performed at the end of the session to family and friends!
No previous experience or ability to read music necessary, just a desire to sing!
Jubilee Series - “Street Party” - Frieze Workshop with Anna Bisset
2nd July 2022 - 10:00 to 15:00 - £65 (A clothed model will be present at the workshop)
The aims of this workshop are to give students the experience of working from the live model (clothed), to show them how to create a large frieze out of a collection of different drawings and to let students try working on one piece of artwork in a group. So group-work is the overall aim, which is a lot of fun!
Paint like Monet with Jason Rose 9th July 2021 - 10:00 - 13:00 - £35
Learn some of the impressionistic landscape painting techniques used by the great French Impressionist Claude Monet. Using interactive acrylic painting demonstrations Jason will show you how to capture light and texture, how to mix realistic foliage colours, how to create the illusion of detail and many other things.
You'll have a complete Monet style painting by the end of the session.
If you have any questions regarding our workshops, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
31st May 2022
Painting Trees With Katherine And Other Workshops
Dear Members and Friends,
Join Katherine for a relaxing and enjoyable watercolour workshop that will cover wet-on-wet and colour mixing techniques. On 25th June 2022, from 10:00 to 13:00. Katherine demonstrates how to draw and paint these delicate forms in line and watercolour, capturing the unique light effects on trunks and branches. All levels are welcome. whether you're keen to try something new or would like to improve your skills - this is a great way to do that and meet some like-minded people for a morning of fun! See the example images below.
Painting Trees in Watercolour with Katherine Poluck
25th June 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00 - £35
BHCA Pop-Up Choir with Davida Robinson
2nd July 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00 £25
'Let your heart sing' Singing is good for the mind body and soul and is even better with others!
Join Davida Robinson (choir leader and music teacher) and become part of an exciting musical morning.
Enjoy creating harmonies and learning great songs which will then be performed at the end of the session to family and friends!
No previous experience or ability to read music necessary, just a desire to sing!
Jubilee Series - “Street Party” - Frieze Workshop with Anna Bisset
2nd July 2022 - 10:00 to 15:00 - £65 (A clothed model will be present at the workshop)
The aims of this workshop are to give students the experience of working from the live model (clothed), to show them how to create a large frieze out of a collection of different drawings and to let students try working on one piece of artwork in a group. So group-work is the overall aim, which is a lot of fun!
Paint like Monet with Jason Rose 9th July 2021 - 10:00 - 13:00 - £35
Learn some of the impressionistic landscape painting techniques used by the great French Impressionist Claude Monet. Using interactive acrylic painting demonstrations Jason will show you how to capture light and texture, how to mix realistic foliage colours, how to create the illusion of detail and many other things.
You'll have a complete Monet style painting by the end of the session.
If you have any questions regarding our workshops, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
30th May 2022
Local Activities During Half Term
Dear Members and Friends,
We hope you have a relaxing time off this half term, and enjoying the celebrations of the queen’s platinum jubilee, honouring 70 years of service. There are various exhibitions, workshops, and jubilee celebrations happening around the local area. See our local events page for details.
If you have any questions regarding our courses and upcoming workshops, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
27th May 2022
Tutor Recruitment
Dear Members and Friends,
Join Katherine for Painting Trees in Watercolours, a relaxing and enjoyable workshop that will cover wet-on-wet techniques and colour mixing. This is a workshop that will suit all levels as long as you can bring a watercolour set. If you are thinking of trying other workshops, please see the workshops below.
Painting Trees in Watercolour with Katherine Poluck
25th June 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00 - £35
BHCA Pop-Up Choir with Davida Robinson
2nd July 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00 £25
'Let your heart sing' Singing is good for the mind body and soul and is even better with others!
Join Davida Robinson (choir leader and music teacher) and become part of an exciting musical morning.
Enjoy creating harmonies and learning great songs which will then be performed at the end of the session to family and friends!
No previous experience or ability to read music necessary, just a desire to sing!
Jubilee Series - “Street Party” - Frieze Workshop with Anna Bisset
2nd July 2022 - 10:00 to 15:00 - £65 (A clothed model will be present at the workshop)
The aims of this workshop are to give students the experience of working from the live model (clothed), to show them how to create a large frieze out of a collection of different drawings and to let students try working on one piece of artwork in a group. So group-work is the overall aim, which is a lot of fun!
Paint like Monet with Jason Rose 9th July 2021 - 10:00 - 13:00 - £35
Learn some of the impressionistic landscape painting techniques used by the great French Impressionist Claude Monet. Using interactive acrylic painting demonstrations Jason will show you how to capture light and texture, how to mix realistic foliage colours, how to create the illusion of detail and many other things.
You'll have a complete Monet style painting by the end of the session.
If you have any questions regarding our workshops, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
26th May 2022
Painting Trees Workshops and Others.
Dear Members and Friends,
Join Katherine for Painting Trees in Watercolours, a relaxing and enjoyable workshop that will cover wet-on-wet techniques and colour mixing. This is a workshop that will suit all levels as long as you can bring a watercolour set. If you are thinking of trying other workshops, please see the workshops below.
Painting Trees in Watercolour with Katherine Poluck
25th June 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00 - £35
BHCA Pop-Up Choir with Davida Robinson
2nd July 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00 £25
'Let your heart sing' Singing is good for the mind body and soul and is even better with others!
Join Davida Robinson (choir leader and music teacher) and become part of an exciting musical morning.
Enjoy creating harmonies and learning great songs which will then be performed at the end of the session to family and friends!
No previous experience or ability to read music necessary, just a desire to sing!
Jubilee Series - “Street Party” - Frieze Workshop with Anna Bisset
2nd July 2022 - 10:00 to 15:00 - £65 (A clothed model will be present at the workshop)
The aims of this workshop are to give students the experience of working from the live model (clothed), to show them how to create a large frieze out of a collection of different drawings and to let students try working on one piece of artwork in a group. So group-work is the overall aim, which is a lot of fun!
Paint like Monet with Jason Rose 9th July 2021 - 10:00 - 13:00 - £35
Learn some of the impressionistic landscape painting techniques used by the great French Impressionist Claude Monet. Using interactive acrylic painting demonstrations Jason will show you how to capture light and texture, how to mix realistic foliage colours, how to create the illusion of detail and many other things.
You'll have a complete Monet style painting by the end of the session.
If you have any questions regarding our workshops, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
24th May 2022
BHCA Summer Show Sunday 17 July 2022 10:30 To 17:00
Dear Members and Friends,
Bedford House is celebrating its 75 Anniversary Year.
You are cordially invited to the annual Summer Show 2022 where students showcase their works. This year the event is bigger and better than ever before and with more activities for all ages.
You can relax in the garden with tea and homemade cakes, try mini taster sessions from our courses and from the organisations based at Bedford House. More details on the Summer Show webpage as they become available. We will keep adding to the programme as activities are confirmed.
This year there will also be an Open Mic and we look forward to enjoying your music and song too. Please contact Lykke, Centre Manager, if you are interested in performing on centremanager@bedfordhouse.org.uk .
Homemade cakes are always in huge demand in our Garden Café. If you are able to donate a cake please bring it to the Garden Café as early on the 17 July as possible, or to the Administration Office on the Friday before.
For those who wish to be part of the cake competition please bring your cake to a designated table near the café by 12:00.
Bring a friend. Spread the word!
21st May 2022
Do You Have Any Spare Foreign Travel Money, Or UK Coins Or Notes?
Dear Members and Friends,
Donate any foreign or UK coins and notes to the Garden Development Project at Bedford House! In or out of circulation currencies from the whole world including UK are welcome.
Put to good use all those coins and notes that are gathering dust at the bottom of a drawer. Bedford House can access an exchange facility of odd coins and notes, foreign or UK, even if they are no longer in circulation. Don’t worry about if the coins and notes are valid or not. If in doubt, just donate the coins / notes and Bedford House will sort out the rest. All donations go to the Fabulous Front Garden Project. Collection pot in Reception, 1st Floor.
18th May 2022
Art and Craft Courses
If creativity is your getaway, why not try some of the arts and crafts courses we have at Bedford House. Join Esther Neslen for our latest pottery course every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Perhaps Learning to Draw, with Tony Swann discovering how to approach drawing, building up from the basics and utilising different techniques and media including pencil, charcoal, and others.
Sculpture in Clay and Pottery with Esther Neslen - Monday, 19:15-21:15
Learn and explore a variety of methods, and how to apply materials and techniques to decorate your finished work. Discover the pottery wheel, and hand-building techniques, including pinch building, slab building, coiling, modelling, and carving. You will learn how to use and combine techniques to develop your skills at your own pace, to bring to life your thoughts and ideas though individual teaching.
Learning to Draw with Tony Swann – Monday 19:00 – 21:00
Learn how to approach drawing, building up from the basics and utilising different techniques and media including pencil, charcoal and others. These classes are designed to help you learn to look, analyse and respond in the form of drawing. Everyone can draw but often lack the tools, approaches and techniques that give you the confidence to do it
Handicraft with Margaret French – Wednesday 14:00 – 16:00 (Scheduled to start 8th June)
Our bespoke teaching will offer you one-on-one teaching and information. Choose your own projects. Our crafting expert, Margaret French can help you decide on a project if you are unsure where to start, and help ideas come to life! Learn Knitting, Crocheting, Applique, Macrame, Patchwork, Quilting or embroidery to name just a few. The possibilities are endless.
No previous experience is needed, just a curiosity to explore. Try a taster session or two, subject to availability.
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
17th May 2022
Art Competition 2022
A friendly reminder that all entries of artwork must be submitted by Friday 24 June to your art tutor. Submitted artworks will be exhibited in the Summer Show 2022 on 17 July. All artworks must have been created or worked on at Bedford House. Only 1 artwork per person in each of the two categories below may be submitted.
When submitting please provide a label with your name, artwork name, artwork description, and the story / inspiration for the artwork if there is one. The story makes the artwork more interesting and relatable.
Submission Date: Friday 24 June 2022
Best-Voted artworks announced: Sunday 17 July 2022
Theme: Theme of your choice.
2D Category: Drawing, Painting, Print and Calligraphy
3D Category: Pottery, Sculpture in Clay, Glass fusing and Crafting.
2D Category selection: 1 x public’s vote + 1 x judging panel’s vote
3D Category selection: 1 x public’s vote + 1 x judging panel’s’ vote
The judging panel will publish their votes on the 17 July 3-4pm.
The public’s vote will be published on 17 July 3-4pm.
Judging panel: Bedford House Art Tutors
Public Vote: Bedford House Members and General Public voting on 17 July at the Summer Show.
Prizes: 1 x £40 voucher for each Best-Voted artwork = 4 prizes.
Vouchers can be used at Bedford House against Workshops, in the Pop-up Shop, and for Summer School courses. Vouchers must be used by 31 December 2022. Vouchers have no cash value and cannot be reclaimed in cash.
If you have any questions please contact your tutor in the first instance, or the Administration Office or the Centre Manager if your tutor is unavailable.
We look forward to receiving your submissions,
Lykke Leszczynski, Centre Manager
13th May 2022
Art Competition 2022
A friendly reminder that all entries of artwork must be submitted by Friday 24 June to your art tutor. Submitted artworks will be exhibited in the Summer Show 2022 on 17 July. All artworks must have been created or worked on at Bedford House. Only 1 artwork per person in each of the two categories below may be submitted.
When submitting please provide a label with your name, artwork name, artwork description, and the story / inspiration for the artwork if there is one. The story makes the artwork more interesting and relatable.
Submission Date: Friday 24 June 2022
Best-Voted artworks announced: Sunday 17 July 2022
Theme: Theme of your choice.
2D Category: Drawing, Painting, Print and Calligraphy
3D Category: Pottery, Sculpture in Clay, Glass fusing and Crafting.
2D Category selection: 1 x public’s vote + 1 x judging panel’s vote
3D Category selection: 1 x public’s vote + 1 x judging panel’s’ vote
The judging panel will publish their votes on the 17 July 3-4pm.
The public’s vote will be published on 17 July 3-4pm.
Judging panel: Bedford House Art Tutors
Public Vote: Bedford House Members and General Public voting on 17 July at the Summer Show.
Prizes: 1 x £40 voucher for each Best-Voted artwork = 4 prizes.
Vouchers can be used at Bedford House against Workshops, in the Pop-up Shop, and for Summer School courses. Vouchers must be used by 31 December 2022. Vouchers have no cash value and cannot be reclaimed in cash.
If you have any questions please contact your tutor in the first instance, or the Administration Office or the Centre Manager if your tutor is unavailable.
We look forward to receiving your submissions,
Lykke Leszczynski, Centre Manager
11th May 2022
Term 3 Workshop
Coming Soon!
Jubilee Series - Jewelled Lettering with Gwyneth Hibbett
21th May 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00 - £35
Some medieval manuscript artists used painting techniques to create realistic looking jewels in their page borders or decorated initials, especially for royal patrons
This workshop will teach you some techniques to paint a range of different jewels with easy-to-follow instructions. You can then use what you have learned to decorate your own jewelled initial letter, fit for a Queen.
Jubilee Series - Watercolours of Royal Palaces with Katherine Poluck
31st May 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00 - £35
Join Katherine for a relaxed, enjoyable watercolour workshop that explores images of the Royal Palaces and gardens. Looking at painting light effects on the buildings and surrounding gardens.
Painting Trees In Watercolour With Katherine Poluck
25th June 2022 - 10:30 to 14:00 £35
Join Katherine for a relaxing and enjoyable workshop that will cover wet-on-wet techniques and colour mixing. This is a workshop that will suit all levels as long as you can bring a watercolour set
BHCA Pop-Up Choir with Davida Robinson
2nd July 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00 £25
'Let your heart sing' Singing is good for the mind body and soul and is even better with others!
Join Davida Robinson (choir leader and music teacher) and become part of an exciting musical morning.
Enjoy creating harmonies and learning great songs which will then be performed at the end of the session to family and friends!
No previous experience or ability to read music necessary, just a desire to sing!
Jubilee Series - “Street Party” - Frieze Workshop with Anna Bisset
2nd July 2022 - 10:00 to 15:00 - £65 (A clothed model will be present at the workshop)
The aims of this workshop are to give students the experience of working from the live model (clothed), to show them how to create a large frieze out of a collection of different drawings and to let students try working on one piece of artwork in a group. So group-work is the overall aim, which is a lot of fun!
If you have any questions regarding our workshops, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
10th May 2022
Pop-Up Plant Sale 10% Off Remaining Stock
Last chance to buy our selection of bedding plants, you have until the 13th May. Our pop-up shop is located on the first floor by Reception. All profits from the sale will go towards improvements to the front garden.
The Fabulous Front Fundraiser is aiming to raise £2,000 which includes professional preparing of the ground and all the new plants for that space. We are pleased to work with Joseph from Joseph Gibson Garden Design Ltd who has offered us a hugely reduced charity price. Some of you may remember Joseph from a good while back when he as a teenager volunteered in the kitchen making tea for Bedford House classes. We are grateful for Joseph’s ongoing support.
We are pleased to have already received £1,150 in donations towards the Fabulous Front Fundraiser target. Any surplus raised will go towards other improvements to the outdoor spaces.
For more information about our fundraising initiatives, please see the Fundraising webpage.
A bicycle rack is now available in the far corner of the parking area towards number 6 Westbury Road. The bicycle rack area will be marked up very soon to avoid cars parking too close.
PS. As part of recent improvements made to the outdoor space at the front of Bedford House all steps and uneven edges have been painted up in white to facilitate safe access.
If you have any questions feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
5th May 2022
Crafting
Dear Members and Friends,
Our Handicraft class is scheduled to start on 8th June, and our bespoke teaching will offer you one-on-one teaching and information. Choose your own projects. Our crafting expert, Margaret French can help you decide on a project if you are unsure where to start, and help ideas come to life! Learn Knitting, Crocheting, Applique, Macrame, Patchwork, Quilting or embroidery to name just a few. The possibilities are endless.
Margaret French was trained by the Royal School of Needlework. Some examples of what Margaret can teach: Beading, Canvas work, Drawn thread, Upholstery, Knitting, Crocheting and Gold work etc. Techniques that can be applied in traditional or innovative ways.
No previous experience is needed, just a curiosity to explore. Try a taster session or two, subject to availability.
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
4th May 2022
Art and Craft Courses
Dear Members and Friends,
If creativity is your getaway, why not try some of the arts and crafts courses we have at Bedford House. Join Esther Neslen for our latest pottery course every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Perhaps Learning to Draw, with Tony Swann discovering how to approach drawing, building up from the basics and utilising different techniques and media including pencil, charcoal, and others.
Sculpture in Clay and Pottery with Esther Neslen - Monday, 19:15-21:15
Learn and explore a variety of methods, and how to apply materials and techniques to decorate your finished work. Discover the pottery wheel, and hand-building techniques, including pinch building, slab building, coiling, modelling, and carving. You will learn how to use and combine techniques to develop your skills at your own pace, to bring to life your thoughts and ideas though individual teaching.
Learning to Draw with Tony Swann – Monday 19:00 – 21:00
Learn how to approach drawing, building up from the basics and utilising different techniques and media including pencil, charcoal and others. These classes are designed to help you learn to look, analyse and respond in the form of drawing. Everyone can draw but often lack the tools, approaches and techniques that give you the confidence to do it
Glass Fusing with Pippa Davismoon – Wednesday 19:15 – 21:15 (Ask for session dates)
Learn basic techniques and ways to enrich designs. You can make beautiful things from the first week such as pendants or decorative pieces. The glass work you can do in this class is small scale jewellery and handheld sized pieces.
No previous experience is needed, just a curiosity to explore. Try a taster session or two, subject to availability.
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
3rd May 2022
BHCA Flower Sale 3-9th May
Dear Members and Friends,
For one week only find a selection of bedding plants in our pop-up shop on the first floor by Reception. All profits from the sale will go towards improvements to the front garden.
The Fabulous Front Fundraiser is aiming to raise £2,000 which includes professional preparing of the ground and all the new plants for that space. We are pleased to work with Joseph from Joseph Gibson Garden Design Ltd who has offered us a hugely reduced charity price. Some of you may remember Joseph from a good while back when he as a teenager volunteered in the kitchen making tea for Bedford House classes. We are grateful for Joseph’s ongoing support.
We are pleased to have already received the first £5 donation towards the Fabulous Front Fundraiser target. Any surplus raised will go towards other improvements to the outdoor spaces.
For more information about our fundraising initiatives, please see the Fundraising webpage.
PS. As part of recent improvements made to the outdoor space at the front of Bedford House all steps and uneven edges have been painted up in white to facilitate safe access.
A bicycle rack is now available in the far corner of the parking area towards number 6 Westbury Road. The bicycle rack area will be marked up very soon to avoid cars parking too close.
Have a good Bank Holiday weekend!
If you have any questions feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
29th April 2022
BHCA Flower Sale 3-9th May
Dear Members and Friends,
From Tuesday 3 May you can for one week only find a selection of bedding plants in our pop-up shop on the first floor by Reception. All profits from the sale will go towards improvements to the front garden.
The Fabulous Front Fundraiser is aiming to raise £2,000 which includes professional preparing of the ground and all the new plants for that space. We are pleased to work with Joseph from Joseph Gibson Garden Design Ltd who has offered us a hugely reduced charity price. Some of you may remember Joseph from a good while back when he as a teenager volunteered in the kitchen making tea for Bedford House classes. We are grateful for Joseph’s ongoing support.
We are pleased to have already received the first £5 donation towards the Fabulous Front Fundraiser target. Any surplus raised will go towards other improvements to the outdoor spaces.
For more information about our fundraising initiatives, please see the Fundraising webpage.
PS. As part of recent improvements made to the outdoor space at the front of Bedford House all steps and uneven edges have been painted up in white to facilitate safe access.
A bicycle rack is now available in the far corner of the parking area towards number 6 Westbury Road. The bicycle rack area will be marked up very soon to avoid cars parking too close.
Have a good Bank Holiday weekend!
If you have any questions feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
27th April 2022
Term 3 Workshops
Dear Members and Friends,
A friendly reminder that our term 3 workshops are approaching, from our Jubilee Series to our Pop-up Choir workshop with Davida Robinson. If you are thinking of trying something new, please see below or the workshop page which may be of interest.
Jubilee Series - Jewelled Lettering with Gwyneth Hibbett
21th May 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00 - £35
Some medieval manuscript artists used painting techniques to create realistic looking jewels in their page borders or decorated initials, especially for royal patrons
This workshop will teach you some techniques to paint a range of different jewels with easy-to-follow instructions. You can then use what you have learned to decorate your own jewelled initial letter, fit for a Queen.
Jubilee Series - Watercolours of Royal Palaces with Katherine Poluck
31st May 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00 - £35
Join Katherine for a relaxed, enjoyable watercolour workshop that explores images of the Royal Palaces and gardens. Looking at painting light effects on the buildings and surrounding gardens.
Painting Trees In Watercolour With Katherine Poluck
25th June 2022 - 10:30 to 14:00 £35
Join Katherine for a relaxing and enjoyable workshop that will cover wet-on-wet techniques and colour mixing. This is a workshop that will suit all levels as long as you can bring a watercolour set
BHCA Pop-Up Choir with Davida Robinson
2nd July 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00 £25
'Let your heart sing' Singing is good for the mind body and soul and is even better with others!
Join Davida Robinson (choir leader and music teacher) and become part of an exciting musical morning.
Enjoy creating harmonies and learning great songs which will then be performed at the end of the session to family and friends!
No previous experience or ability to read music necessary, just a desire to sing!
Jubilee Series - “Street Party” - Frieze Workshop with Anna Bisset
2nd July 2022 - 10:00 to 15:00 - £65 (A clothed model will be present at the workshop)
The aims of this workshop are to give students the experience of working from the live model (clothed), to show them how to create a large frieze out of a collection of different drawings and to let students try working on one piece of artwork in a group. So group-work is the overall aim, which is a lot of fun!
If you have any questions regarding our workshops, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
26th April 2022
Glass Fusing - Last Chance
Dear Members and Friends,
Last chance to sign up for our exciting Glass Fusing course which starts tomorrow. The class is perfect if you feel like exercising your creativity in a different way with this unique course. You'll be walking away with a new skill, new friends, and some beautiful glass items such as tealight holders, pendants, small scale jewellery, handheld sized pieces or decorative pieces. (See below)
8 sessions. Wednesdays: 19:15 - 21:15
Tutor: Pippa Davismoon -Instagram: @pippadavismoon / @create563
website: www.pippadavismoon.com
Limited spaces remain as the class is small for optimal learning.
All you need is an apron/old shirt, a notebook and pencil, and enthusiasm!
To enrol give us a call or email us.
If you have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
22nd April 2022
Flower Fundraiser
Dear Members and Friends,
You did it! £1,800 raised in just over 7 weeks to make the garden design happen.
This is the beginning of a great project; The Bedford House back garden is an amazing resource with great potential. Developing the garden will mean that many groups in addition to the Students and Members can benefit from the educational and healing aspects of working in and being in a garden and the natural environment. Thank you to all those who contributed with donations, large as small, we are grateful for them all.
We will keep you informed of design developments for the back garden when they become available. In the meantime we are raising money to make improvements to the front garden and for what will be the first bite-sized project at the back. Look out for new fundraising initiatives as they are launched.
If you have any questions regarding the garden project, how to donate, or how to join the Gardening Volunteer Team please contact the Centre Manager on CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk .
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
20th April 2022
Term 3
Dear Members and Friends,
Just a reminder that term 3 has started, if you have yet to enrol please do so, to avoid missing sessions and full classes. To enrol please email an enrolment form to admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk. Once we have received your enrolment forms, we will contact you for payment. If you are unsure about which course to enrol on try a Taster Session or two, subject to place availability. We have a wide selection of courses, from Pilates to Pottery. If you are thinking of trying something new, see our course programme for the full course list.
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
19th April 2022
Glass Fusing
“From paper to glass” It all begins with an idea. Any design, any colour. If you can imagine it, you can create it. You can make some of the most intricate designs out of glass, with endless designs, from earrings to table décor. Glass fusing began around 5000 years ago. The art of fusing glass with metal, dates to ancient times. “Egyptian faience ware was known to have been produced between 6 and 7 thousand years ago”.
Glass fusing was rediscovered in the 1960s and developments led to compatible glass sheets being mass produced.
Glass is exciting to experiment with and a very forgiving medium. It can be refined up to 7 times thus allowing continued development of a piece. You don’t have to get it right the first time. The colour combinations are endless. Seeing a light catcher make streaming coloured shadows across your room is enchanting.
You can make beautiful decorative pieces from the first week of Pippa’s Glass Fusing course at Bedford House. Learn the glass fusing fundamentals and ways to enrich the design and process. Make glass artwork for yourself, your home, or your friends. Look below at some of the art made by the glass fusing students. Pippa's Glass Fusing course starts on the 4th May.
If you have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
14th April 2022
Pottery
Dear Members and Friends,
Join Esther Nelsen every Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday for our latest pottery course. Learn and explore a variety of methods, and how to apply materials and techniques to decorate your finished work. Discover the pottery wheel, and hand-building techniques, including pinch building, slab building, coiling, modelling, and carving.
You will learn how to use and combine techniques to develop your skills at your own pace, to bring to life your thoughts and ideas though individual teaching. No previous experience is needed, just a curiosity to explore and enjoy working with clay in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. Try a taster session or two, subject to availability. Remember, Term 3 starts on the 19th of April, make sure to send your enrolment forms to admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk, and we will contact you for payment.
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
13th April 2022
Flower Power Fundraiser
Dear Members and Friends,
The Bedford House back garden is an amazing resource, which is currently under-utilised. It has great potential and developing the garden will mean that many groups in addition to the Students and Members can benefit from the educational and healing aspects of working in and being in a garden and natural environment. We have currently raised £546 out of the £1,800 we need for a garden design. Without the design we are unable to apply for funding. Groundwork has offered to do this at a reduced cost of £1,800 incl. VAT. It is therefore essential that we fundraise for a design that will enable us to get the first sub-project off the ground so that we can make the most of this resource gem.
100% of the funds from the Flower Fundraiser will go towards the design, and if exceeding the income target the remainder will go towards the first project.
Visit our Pop-Up (artificial) Flower Stall on the First Floor by Reception. You can also just make a donation in the clay pot by the flower stall if you prefer.
If you have any questions regarding the garden project, how to donate, or how to join the Gardening Volunteer Team please contact the Centre Manager on CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk .
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
8th April 2022
Sculpture in Clay & Pottery
Dear Members and Friends,
Join Esther Neslen every Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday for Sculpture in Clay and Pottery.
Learn and explore a variety of methods in 3D sculpture, and how to apply materials and techniques to decorate your finished work. Discover the pottery wheel, and hand-building techniques, including pinch building, slab building, coiling, modelling, and carving.
You will learn how to use and combine techniques to develop your skills at your own pace, to bring to life your thoughts and ideas though individual teaching. No previous experience is needed, just a curiosity to explore and enjoy working with clay in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. Remember, Term 3 starts on the 19th of April, make sure to send your enrolment forms to admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk, and we will contact you for payment.
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
7th April 2022
Visit The Virtual Vivian Bewick Exhibition Now With Additional Materials
Dear Members and Friends,
Visit our extended Virtual Vivian Bewick Exhibition now available online.
We have received on loan additional materials from the Bewick family, which have been digitalised. You can enjoy these materials on our Exhibition webpage.
The Bewick family have kindly donated a collection of drawings and paintings by the artist Vivian Bewick (1912 – 1999) who along with Walter E. Spradbery (1889 – 1969) helped to establish Bedford House after the second world war. Vivian was a key mover in establishing art classes at Bedford House which still continue until now as one of our key areas of activity.
Vivian had already left Bedford House a legacy of his work with the murals painted under the ceiling in the lobby of Bedford House in the 1950’s which were later restored by Essex County Council in 1992.
We are delighted to be able to exhibit a broad collection of Vivian’s work ranging from first world war drawings and sketches to the many paintings he produced over his lifetime.
The exhibition has been extended and is open to the public until June 2022 by appointment (to avoid clashing with our courses).To make an appointment please call the Administration Office on 020 8504 6668. We are often open 7 days a week but weekend opening hours vary depending on activities.
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact the Administration Office at admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk.
If you would like to know more about the Bedford House history please see our webpage.
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes,
Lykke Leszczynski
Centre Manager
31st March 2022
Dear Members and Friends,
In 2022, Her Majesty The Queen will become the first British Monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee after 70 years of service. Get involved in our jubilee workshops to celebrating Her Majesty’s historic reign.
Jubilee Series - Jewelled Lettering with Gwyneth Hibbett
21th May 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00 - £35
Some medieval manuscript artists used painting techniques to create realistic looking jewels in their page borders or decorated initials, especially for royal patrons. This workshop will teach you some techniques to paint a range of different jewels with easy-to-follow instructions. You can then use what you have learned to decorate your own jewelled initial letter, fit for a Queen. (See workshop page for what to bring)
Jubilee Series - Watercolours of Royal Palaces with Katherine Poluck
31st May 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00 - £35
Join Katherine for a relaxed, enjoyable watercolour workshop that explores images of the Royal Palaces and gardens. Looking at painting light effects on the buildings and surrounding gardens. Katherine is a very experienced local artist and demonstrates techniques throughout the class. (See workshop page for what to bring)
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our workshops, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
29th March 2022
Needlecraft
BHCA Pop-Up Choir with Davida Robinson: 14th May 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00 - £25
Join Davida Robinson (choir leader and music teacher) and become part of an exciting musical morning. Enjoy creating harmonies and learning great songs, which will then be performed at the end of the session to family and friends! It is optional to invite friends and family. Singing is good for the mind, body, and soul and is even better with others! No previous experience needed, just a desire to sing!
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our workshops, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
29th March 2022
BHCA Choir
BHCA Pop-Up Choir with Davida Robinson: 14th May 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00 - £25
Join Davida Robinson (choir leader and music teacher) and become part of an exciting musical morning. Enjoy creating harmonies and learning great songs, which will then be performed at the end of the session to family and friends! It is optional to invite friends and family. Singing is good for the mind, body, and soul and is even better with others! No previous experience needed, just a desire to sing!
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our workshops, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
25th March 2022
Enrolment - 9 Days Till End Of Term
Dear Members and Friends,
There are less than 9 days till term two ends, make sure to enrol to secure a place on your favourite courses, as the office will be closed till 19th April. Enrol now to avoid missing sessions or full classes. To enrol please email an enrolment form to admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk. Once we have received your enrolment forms, we will contact you for payment. If you are unsure about which course to enrol on try a Taster Session or two, subject to place availability. We have a wide selection of courses, from Pilates to Pottery. If you are thinking of trying something new, see our course programme for the full course list.
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
24th March 2022
2022 Art Competition for BHCA Members
Dear Members,
We are inviting Bedford House members to take part in the Art Competition 2022. All entries of artwork must be submitted by Friday 24 June to your art tutor. Submitted artworks will be exhibited in the Summer Show 2022 on 17 July. All artworks must have been created or worked on at Bedford House. Only 1 artwork per person in each of the two categories above may be submitted.
When submitting please provide a label with your name, artwork name, artwork description, and the story / inspiration for the artwork if there is one. The story makes the artwork more interesting and relatable.
Submission Date: Friday 24 June 2022
Best-Voted artworks announced: Sunday 17 July 2022
Theme: Theme of your choice.
2D Category: Drawing, Painting, Print and Calligraphy
3D Category: Pottery, Sculpture in Clay, and Glass fusing
2D Category selection: 1 x public’s vote + 1 x judging panel’s vote
3D Category selection: 1 x public’s vote + 1 x judging panel’s’ vote
The judging panel will publish their votes on the 17 July 3-4pm.
The public’s vote will be published on 17 July 3-4pm.
Judging panel: Bedford House Art Tutors
Public Vote: Bedford House Members and General Public voting on 17 July at the Summer Show.
Prizes: 1 x £40 voucher for each Best-Voted artwork = 4 prizes.
Vouchers can be used at Bedford House against Workshops, in the Pop-up Art Supplies Stall, for Summer School courses. Vouchers must be used by 31 December 2022. Vouchers have no cash value and cannot be reclaimed in cash.
If you have any questions please contact your tutor in the first instance, or the Administration Office or the Centre Manager if your tutor is unavailable.
We look forward to receiving your submissions,
Lykke Leszczynski, Centre Manager
19th March 2022
Enrolment Open To The Public
Dear Members and Friends,
The priority deadline for existing students ended on 18th March, and some courses are already full. Enrol now to secure a place on your favourite courses. You would need to fill out an enrolment form for us to process your enrolment.
If you are unsure about which course to enrol on try a Taster Session or two, subject to place availability. We have a wide selection of courses, from Pilates to Pottery. If you are thinking of trying something new, see our course programme for the full course list.
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
17th March 2022
Enrolment
Dear Members and Friends,
Tomorrow is the last day to re-enrol without forms. Call the office to book on your favourite courses.
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
17th March 2022
Flower Power Fundraiser
Dear Members and Friends,
The Bedford House back garden is an amazing resource, which is currently under-utilised. It has great potential and developing the garden will mean that many groups in addition to the Students and Members can benefit from the educational and healing aspects of working in and being in a garden and natural environment. We have currently raised £241 out of the £1,800 we need for a garden design. Without the design we are unable to apply for funding. Groundwork has offered to do this at a reduced cost of £1,800 incl. VAT. It is therefore essential that we fundraise for a design that will enable us to get the first sub-project off the ground so that we can make the most of this resource gem.
100% of the funds from the Flower Fundraiser will go towards the design, and if exceeding the income target the remainder will go towards the first project.
Visit our Pop-Up (artificial) Flower Stall on the First Floor by Reception. You can also just make a donation in the clay pot by the flower stall if you prefer.
If you have any questions regarding the garden project, how to donate, or how to join the Gardening Volunteer Team please contact the Centre Manager on CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk .
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
15th March 2022
Enrolment
Dear Members and Friends,
Just a reminder that you can enrol now for term 3 which starts on 18 April 2022, AND if you enrol before the 18th March on the same course as you are currently on, you do not need to fill in any forms!
We have listened to members and made the term transition easier when you meet the time deadline. After 18 March enrolment is open to the public and you will need to fill in the enrolment form. If you wish to secure your space, make sure to enrol before 18 March.
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
11th March 2022
Enrolment
Dear Members and Friends,
Just a reminder that you can enrol now for term 3 which starts on 18 April 2022, AND if you enrol before the 18th March on the same course as you are currently on, you do not need to fill in any forms!
We have listened to members and made the term transition easier when you meet the time deadline. After 18 March enrolment is open to the public and you will need to fill in the enrolment form. If you wish to secure your space, make sure to enrol before 18 March.
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
10th March 2022
Flower Power Fundraiser
Dear Members and Friends,
The Bedford House back garden is an amazing resource, which is currently under-utilised. It has great potential and developing the garden will mean that many groups in addition to the Students and Members can benefit from the educational and healing aspects of working in and being in a garden and natural environment. We have currently raised £225 out of the £1,800 we need for a garden design. Without the design we are unable to apply for funding. Groundwork has offered to do this at a reduced cost of £1,800 incl. VAT. It is therefore essential that we fundraise for a design that will enable us to get the first sub-project off the ground so that we can make the most of this resource gem.
100% of the funds from the Flower Fundraiser will go towards the design, and if exceeding the income target the remainder will go towards the first project.
Visit our Pop-Up (artificial) Flower Stall on the First Floor by Reception. You can also just make a donation in the clay pot by the flower stall if you prefer.
If you have any questions regarding the garden project, how to donate, or how to join the Gardening Volunteer Team please contact the Centre Manager on CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk .
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
8th March 2022
Painting Spring Flowers Workshop
Dear Members and Friends,
It's your last chance to sign up for our exciting Watercolours Workshop taking place at Bedford House this Saturday 12th March from 10:30 to 14:00. Join Katherine for a relaxing and enjoyable watercolour workshop that will cover wet-on-wet and colour mixing techniques. Katherine demonstrates how to draw and paint these delicate forms in line and watercolour, capturing the unique light effects on petals and stems. All levels are welcome. whether you're keen to try something new or would like to improve your skills - this is a great way to do that and meet some like-minded people for a morning of fun!
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our courses and workshops, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
5th March 2022
BHCA Class Champions
Dear Members and Friends
I hope you are enjoying the meteorological spring that started on 1st March.
We are bursting with ideas and initiatives, such as Volunteering at Bedford House, Jubilee Workshops and Art Competition (more info coming soon), and now also adding Class Champions to the mix.
The new role of Class Champion is set up to ensure effective communication between the Administration Office, Students and Tutors. We would like to run a pilot until the end of Term 3 to see how this role could make a difference to co-students.
Why? It appears that it sometimes takes a long time for an issue to reach the Centre Manager with students talking about the issues in class sometimes for months, but not bringing it to the Centre Manager’s attention. The issue is therefore likely to remain unresolved. Most issues can be resolved fairly easily and it seems a shame struggling with something for months if it could be resolved in a week.
Similarly the Administration Office has information that they would like to relay to students, but it is sometimes difficult to reach all the student groups regularly, especially those off site or with limited IT.
What will Class Champions do? Class Champions will provide feedback and suggestions from their class or raise questions on behalf of the class with the Centre Manager so that issues can be resolved speedily.
The Administration Office and Centre Manager will liaise with the Class Champions when these come to their courses about information that needs bringing to the attention of students, such as important Bedford House dates and events regarding enrolment, workshops, exhibitions, term times, etc.
The Class Champion role is intended to be informal and the main focus is on effective communication so that we can resolve issues speedily, make the most of our environment, and enhance the student, visitor and staff experience.
If you are interested in becoming a Class Champion please contact Lykke, the Centre Manager on CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk or ring 020 8504 6668. If you would like to join the Champions but are unsure if it is for you why not try it out for a few weeks and see how it goes.
Volunteering at Bedford House
Following our recent advert for Volunteering at Bedford House we are thrilled to welcome Roger to the Maintenance Volunteering Team and Sonia to the Administration Volunteering Team. They have already started settling into their teams.
We still need Gardening Volunteers, so if you are interested please contact Lykke, Centre Manager, on CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk . The first gardening session is likely to take place on Thursday 10 March, possibly 12 onwards. To be confirmed. More information about Volunteering at Bedford House on our website.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
5th March 2022
Oil Painting
Dear Members and Friends,
Oil painting remains the most versatile of the painting media, dating back centuries. The earliest discovery of its usage goes as far back as the 5th century A.D. to the Bamian Valley of Afghanistan. Half a millennium or so prior to the development of modern acrylic paints, oils have been the most important medium in painting in the western world. It is generally accepted that many of the great achievements of Renaissance painting were the result of switching from tempera to oils. Importance to impact, oil painting still stands its ground as the most popular and versatile medium. Once your painting is on the wall it shows enough texture to confirm that it is an original.
(The history of oil painting) (Oil Painting today).
Explore the delicate art of oil painting with Tony Swann. Tuesday evenings, from 7pm-9pm. Whether you’re improving your technique or starting from scratch, this course will help you paint with confidence. Learn how to manipulate your paints to stunning effect, get tips on working and re-working your paintings as they dry, and discover painting techniques that will add depth, light, and character to your work. See below artwork from Tony’s students. Remember, you can re-enrol without an enrolment form until the 18th of March! Just call the office.
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
2nd March 2022
Sculpture In Clay & Pottery
Dear Members and Friends,
Join Esther Neslen every Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday for Sculpture in Clay and Pottery.
Learn and explore a variety of methods in 3D sculpture, and how to apply materials and techniques to decorate your finished work. Discover the pottery wheel, and hand-building techniques, including pinch building, slab building, coiling, modelling, and carving.
You will learn how to use and combine techniques to develop your skills at your own pace, to bring to life your thoughts and ideas though individual teaching. No previous experience is needed, just a curiosity to explore and enjoy working with clay in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. Remember, you can re-enrol without an enrolment form until the 18th of March! Just call the office.
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
1st March 2022
Flower Power Fundraiser
Dear Members and Friends,
The Bedford House back garden is an amazing resource, which is currently under-utilised. It has great potential and developing the garden will mean that many groups in addition to the Students and Members can benefit from the educational and healing aspects of working in and being in a garden and natural environment. We have currently raised £78 out of the £1,800 we need for a garden design. Without the design we are unable to apply for funding. Groundwork has offered to do this at a reduced cost of £1,800 incl. VAT. It is therefore essential that we fundraise for a design that will enable us to get the first sub-project off the ground so that we can make the most of this resource gem.
100% of the funds from the Flower Fundraiser will go towards the design, and if exceeding the income target the remainder will go towards the first project.
Visit our Pop-Up (artificial) Flower Stall on the First Floor by Reception. You can also just make a donation in the clay pot by the flower stall if you prefer.
If you have any questions regarding the garden project, how to donate, or how to join the Gardening Volunteer Team please contact the Centre Manager on CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk .
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
25th February 2022
Painting Spring Flowers In Watercolour Workshop
Dear Members and Friends,
Join Katherine for a relaxing and enjoyable watercolour workshop that will cover wet-on-wet and colour mixing techniques. On 12th March 2022, from 10:30 to 14:00. Katherine demonstrates how to draw and paint these delicate forms in line and watercolour, capturing the unique light effects on petals and stems. All levels are welcome. whether you're keen to try something new or would like to improve your skills - this is a great way to do that and meet some like-minded people for a morning of fun!
BHCA Pop Up Choir and Painting Trees in Watercolour commence during term three, check out our workshop page for updates on existing workshops and new workshops.
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
24th February 2022
Enrolment
Dear Members and Friends,
Just a reminder that you can now enrol for term 3 which starts on 18 April 2022, AND if you enrol before 18 March on the same course as you are on in term 2 you do not need to fill in any forms!
We have listened to members and made the term transition easier when you meet the time deadline. After 18 March enrolment is open to the public and you will need to fill in the enrolment form. If you wish to secure your space make sure to enrol before 18 March.
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
23rd February 2022
Join The Administration Team At Bedford House - Deadline
Dear Members and Friends,
Bedford House is looking for an Administrator – Social Media to join the administration team, the deadline is Sunday. The post can be a job-share. Bedford House Community Association (BHCA) is one of the largest self-supporting, independent providers of adult education and leisure activities in Essex. Bedford House is in demand for Space Hire both by regular education related hirers and one-off hirers such as for children’s parties, both important services to the community.
BHCA is open 13 hours a day Monday to Friday, approximately 9:00 to 22:00. Saturday and Sunday opening hours vary depending on activities for 0-10 hours each day, with activities most weekends. Typically children’s parties run from 10:00 to 14:00 and 14:00 to 18:00. The Administration Team consists of 3 part time Administrators and ….. See full details in the job description on our Vacancies webpage under ‘About Us’.
To apply: Download and fill in the Application Form from our website www.bedfordhouse.org.uk under ‘About Us’ and submit by midnight on Sunday 27 February 2022 to the Centre Manager via email on CentreManager@Bedfordhouse.org.uk. See full application instructions in the job description.
If you have any questions about the role, please contact the Centre Manager on CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk. Please share the information with your contacts.
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
22nd February 2022
Flower Power Fundraiser
Dear Members and Friends,
The Bedford House back garden is an amazing resource, which is currently under-utilised. It has great potential and developing the garden will mean that many groups in addition to the Students and Members can benefit from the educational and healing aspects of working in and being in a garden and natural environment.
Bedford House is partnering with Groundwork.org.uk to develop the garden, but the very first step is to design a garden. Without the design we are unable to apply for funding. Groundwork has offered to do this at a reduced cost of £1,800 incl. VAT. It is therefore essential we raise £1,800 asap for a design that will enable us to get the first sub-project off the ground so that we can make the most of this resource gem.
100% of the funds from the Flower Fundraiser will go towards the design, and if exceeding the income target the remainder will go towards the first project.
Visit our Pop-Up (artificial) Flower Stall on the First Floor by Reception. Set your own flower prices and donate towards the garden design.
On a practical note, it can be difficult to untangle the flowers because there are so many of them, so please ring the bell and an Administration Team member will come to assist you.
If you have any questions regarding the garden project, how to donate, or how to join the Gardening Volunteer Team please contact the Centre Manager on CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk .
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
17th February 2022
Term 3 Enrolment
Dear Members and Friends,
We hope you are having a good break. Just a reminder that you can now enrol for term 3 which starts on 18 April 2022, AND if you enrol before 18 March on the same course as you are on in term 2 you do not need to fill in any forms!
We have listened to members and made the term transition easier when you meet the time deadline. After 18 March enrolment is open to the public and you will need to fill in the enrolment form. If you wish to secure your space make sure to enrol before 18 March.
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
10th February 2022
Join the administrative team at Bedford House
Dear Members and Friends,
Bedford House is looking for an Administrator – Social Media to join the administration team. The post can be a job-share. Bedford House Community Association (BHCA) is one of the largest self-supporting, independent providers of adult education and leisure activities in Essex. Bedford House is in demand for Space Hire both by regular education related hirers and one-off hirers such as for children’s parties, both important services to the community.
BHCA is open 13 hours a day Monday to Friday, approximately 9:00 to 22:00. Saturday and Sunday opening hours vary depending on activities for 0-10 hours each day, with activities most weekends. Typically children’s parties run from 10:00 to 14:00 and 14:00 to 18:00. The Administration Team consists of 3 part time Administrators and ….. See full details in the job description on our Vacancies webpage under ‘About Us’.
To apply: Download and fill in the Application Form from our website www.bedfordhouse.org.uk under ‘About Us’ and submit by midnight on Sunday 27 February 2022 to the Centre Manager via email on CentreManager@Bedfordhouse.org.uk. See full application instructions in the job description.
If you have any questions about the role, please contact the Centre Manager on CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk. Please share the information with your contacts.
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
8th February 2022
Volunteering with Bedford House
Dear Members and Friends,
A friendly reminder that our term 2 workshops are approaching, from choir to the Garden obelisk workshop with Jill Leheup. If you are thinking of trying something new, please see the workshop page may be of interest.
Willow Garden Obelisks Workshop with Jill Leheup: 12th March 2022 - 10:00 - 16:00
Bend and weave willow to make a free-standing tower to support climbing plants such sweet peas or runner beans. Suitable for those new to willow weaving and those with some experience.
Painting Spring Flowers in Watercolour Workshop with Katherine Poluck: 12th March 2022 - 10:30 -14:00
Join Katherine for a relaxing and enjoyable watercolour workshop that will cover wet-on-wet and colour mixing techniques. Demonstrating how to draw and paint these delicate forms in line and watercolour, capturing the unique light effects on petals and stems. All levels are welcome. whether you're keen to try something new or would like to improve your skills - this is a great way to do that and meet some like-minded people for a morning of fun!
BHCA Pop-Up Choir with Davida Robinson: 14th May 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00
Warm up your vocal cords in time for our Pop-Up Choir workshop with Davida Robinson. Become part of a fun and creative musical morning. Enjoy creating harmonies and learning great songs. Singing is good for the mind, body, and soul and is even better with others!
Painting Trees in Watercolour with Katherine Poluck: 25th June 2022 - 10:30 to 14:00
You will be producing study sketches and artwork that will be vibrant and interesting. The work will be fully supported by the Tutor with demonstrations, advice, and a good range of technical knowledge. We will look at atmospheric effects and some sky formations. You will need to bring in images of trees that you would like to paint from or have them saved on your phone. This workshop covers wet-on-wet techniques and colour mixing. Suitable for all levels.
Check out our workshop page for updates on existing workshops and new workshops.
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
3rd February 2022
Term 2 Workshop - Reminder
Dear Members and Friends,
A friendly reminder that our term 2 workshops are approaching, from choir to the Garden obelisk workshop with Jill Leheup. If you are thinking of trying something new, please see the workshop page may be of interest.
Willow Garden Obelisks Workshop with Jill Leheup: 12th March 2022 - 10:00 - 16:00
Bend and weave willow to make a free-standing tower to support climbing plants such sweet peas or runner beans. Suitable for those new to willow weaving and those with some experience.
Painting Spring Flowers in Watercolour Workshop with Katherine Poluck: 12th March 2022 - 10:30 -14:00
Join Katherine for a relaxing and enjoyable watercolour workshop that will cover wet-on-wet and colour mixing techniques. Demonstrating how to draw and paint these delicate forms in line and watercolour, capturing the unique light effects on petals and stems. All levels are welcome. whether you're keen to try something new or would like to improve your skills - this is a great way to do that and meet some like-minded people for a morning of fun!
BHCA Pop-Up Choir with Davida Robinson: 14th May 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00
Warm up your vocal cords in time for our Pop-Up Choir workshop with Davida Robinson. Become part of a fun and creative musical morning. Enjoy creating harmonies and learning great songs. Singing is good for the mind, body, and soul and is even better with others!
Painting Trees in Watercolour with Katherine Poluck: 25th June 2022 - 10:30 to 14:00
You will be producing study sketches and artwork that will be vibrant and interesting. The work will be fully supported by the Tutor with demonstrations, advice, and a good range of technical knowledge. We will look at atmospheric effects and some sky formations. You will need to bring in images of trees that you would like to paint from or have them saved on your phone. This workshop covers wet-on-wet techniques and colour mixing. Suitable for all levels.
Check out our workshop page for updates on existing workshops and new workshops.
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community!
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
28th January 2022
Term 2 Workshops
Dear Members and Friends,
Our term 2 workshops are steadily approaching, make sure to sign up to your favourite workshops before spaces fill up! We have a wide selection of workshops, from choir to the Garden obelisk workshop with Jill Leheup. If you are thinking of trying something new, perhaps the workshop page may be of interest.
Willow Garden Obelisks Workshop with Jill Leheup: 12th March 2022 - 10:00 - 16:00
Bend and weave willow to make a free-standing tower to support climbing plants such sweet peas or runner beans. Suitable for those new to willow weaving and those with some experience.
Painting Spring Flowers in Watercolour Workshop with Katherine Poluck: 12th March 2022 - 10:30 -14:00
Join Katherine for a relaxing and enjoyable watercolour workshop that will cover wet-on-wet and colour mixing techniques. Demonstrating how to draw and paint these delicate forms in line and watercolour, capturing the unique light effects on petals and stems. All levels are welcome. whether you're keen to try something new or would like to improve your skills - this is a great way to do that and meet some like-minded people for a morning of fun!
BHCA Pop-Up Choir with Davida Robinson: 14th May 2022 - 10:00 to 13:00
Warm up your vocal cords in time for our Pop-Up Choir workshop with Davida Robinson. Become part of a fun and creative musical morning. Enjoy creating harmonies and learning great songs. Singing is good for the mind, body, and soul and is even better with others!
Painting Trees in Watercolour with Katherine Poluck: 25th June 2022 - 10:30 to 14:00
You will be producing study sketches and artwork that will be vibrant and interesting. The work will be fully supported by the Tutor with demonstrations, advice, and a good range of technical knowledge. We will look at atmospheric effects and some sky formations. You will need to bring in images of trees that you would like to paint from or have them saved on your phone. This workshop covers wet-on-wet techniques and colour mixing. Suitable for all levels.
Check out our workshop page for updates on existing workshops and new workshops.
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
25th January 2022
Oil Painting
Dear Members and Friends,
Oil painting remains the most versatile of the painting media, dating back centuries. The earliest discovery of its usage goes as far back as the 5th century A.D. to the Bamian Valley of Afghanistan.
Oil painting didn’t achieve widespread popularity and use until it’s arrival in Northern Europe in the 15th century. Jan Van Eyck is most often acknowledged with “discovering” the medium, some of his famous works include Arnolfini wedding portrait, the Lucca Madonna, and the Ghent Altarpiece. (The history of oil painting).
Explore the delicate art of oil painting with Tony Swann. Tuesday evenings, from 7pm-9pm. Whether you’re improving your technique or starting from scratch, this course will help you paint with confidence. Learn how to manipulate your paints to stunning effect, get tips on working and re-working your paintings as they dry, and discover painting techniques that will add depth, light, and character to your work.
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
21th January 2022
Hand building in clay
Dear Members and Friends,
Pottery and ceramic art have been the recent trend to take over Tiktok and Instagram. A new wholesome trend of sharing a short snippet of the before and after / process. Castellas-Cartwright dubbed the “pottery girl” only started pottery at the beginning of 2021, bored while in lockdown, turned to pottery for a new hobby. “I bought some clay and started hand building pieces and then enrolled in a few classes at a local pottery studio to learn wheel throwing.”
There is also a “pottery boy”, his passion started after attending a class with his friend. He described the class as a 'magical' experience and was surprised he enjoyed it. One of his videos has gone viral and been viewed more than 900,000 times. Click here to see his videos.
Join Esther Neslen, on Monday evenings Handbuilding in clay course and hopefully feel the magic. Learn and explore a variety of methods in 3D sculpture, and how to apply materials and techniques to decorate your finished work. Discover brand-new skills like hand-building techniques, including pinch building, slab building, coiling, modelling, carving and more. There are many methods used to create a three-dimensional sculpture in clay. You will learn how to use and combine these techniques to develop your skills at your own pace, to bring to life your thoughts and ideas though individual teaching. No previous experience is needed, just a curiosity to explore and enjoy working with clay in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere.
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
18th January 2022
Glass Fusing - Last chance
Dear Members and Friends,
Last chance to sign up for our exciting Glass Fusing course which starts tomorrow. The class is perfect if you feel like exercising your creativity in a different way with this unique course. You'll be walking away with a new skill, new friends, and some beautiful glass items such as tealight holders, pendants, small scale jewellery, handheld sized pieces or decorative pieces.
8 sessions in each of term two and three.
Wednesdays: 19:15 - 21:15
Tutor: Pippa Davismoon -Instagram: @pippadavismoon / @create563
website: www.pippadavismoon.com
Limited spaces remain as the class is small for optimal learning.
All you need is an apron/old shirt, a notebook and pencil, and enthusiasm!
To enrol give us a call or email us.
If you have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
14th January 2022
From paper to glass
Dear Members and Friends,
“From paper to glass” It all begins with an idea. Any design, any colour. If you can imagine it, you can create it. You can make some of the most intricate designs out of glass, with endless designs, from earrings to table décor. Glass fusing began around 5000 years ago. The art of fusing glass with metal, dates to ancient times. “Egyptian faience ware was known to have been produced between 6 and 7 thousand years ago”.
Glass fusing was rediscovered in the 1960s and developments led to compatible glass sheets being mass produced.
Glass is exciting to experiment with and a very forgiving medium. It can be refined up to 7 times thus allowing continued development of a piece. You don’t have to get it right the first time. The colour combinations are endless. Seeing a light catcher, you have made streaming gorgeous coloured shadows across your room is enchanting.
You can make beautiful decorative pieces from the first week of Pippa’s Glass Fusing course at Bedford House. Learn the glass fusing fundamentals, in the course we look at ways to enrich the design and process. Make glass artwork for yourself, your home, or your friends. Look below at some of the art made by the glass fusing students.
Pippa's students are exhibiting their work in the glass cabinet next to art stall, at the reception. take time out your day to see the beautiful glass pieces!
If you have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
11th January 2022
Physical activity and exercise
Dear Members and Friends,
Many adults aged 65 and over spend, on average, 10 hours or more each day sitting or lying down, making them the most sedentary age group.
There's strong evidence that people who are active have a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, some cancers, depression and dementia.
If you want to stay pain-free, reduce your risk of mental illness, and be able to go out and stay independent well into old age, you're advised to keep moving. Recent evidence suggests that regular exercise can reduce the risk of falling in older adults.
What is physical activity?
Physical activity is anything that gets your body moving. It includes anything from walking and gardening to recreational sport. As well as regular physical activity, try to reduce the amount of time you spend sitting down during the day. Find out why sitting is bad for you.
Getting started
What you do will depend on your own circumstances but, as a guiding principle, it's a good idea to do activities you enjoy. If you're already active, you may find it useful to know that 75 minutes of vigorous activity over a week is as beneficial as 150 minutes of moderate activity.
Research shows it's never too late to adopt and reap the health benefits from a more active lifestyle. For example, older adults who are active will reduce their risk of heart disease and stroke to a similar level as younger people who are active.
The above extracts are from an NHS webpage: Exercise as you get older - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Bedford House can help you take steps to staying active and healthy through the different health, fitness and wellbeing courses on offer, such as from the easier end of the exercise scale: Keep Fit for Women 60+, Walks on Paths in Epping Forest, and Yoga, to the more demanding Guided Walks in Epping Forest (3 different kinds and activity levels), Yoga (2 activity levels), Pilates, Aerobics, and Ballet (2 levels). Something for everyone, whether you prefer the outdoors or indoors. More information on our website or call the Administration Office.
If you have any questions regarding our courses, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
15th December 2021
Term one overview
Dear Members and Friends,
We would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and happy holiday season. Term one was a huge success, with BHCA running 32 courses weekly and 6 workshops, an amazing feat, and we would like to thank you all for making this possible. We are glad Bedford House is a space that we can all enjoy during various points in the week. As you may already know Bedford House is closed from 18th December till 3rd January. So, make sure to enrol before 17th December. Term two starts on Tuesday 4th January 2022.
Please take a moment to look at our Term One highlights.
Winter Craft Fair:
We had almost 200 visitors who enjoyed the 20 stalls and activities, including the café with homemade cakes and friendly atmosphere. We supported the stall holders, small businesses and organisations. The event keeps growing year on year and Bedford House is becoming an established destination for the Winter Craft Fair. Click here to see the pictures from the Winter Craft Fair.
75th Anniversary:
This year Bedford House Community Association celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community. 75 years is an impressive length of time for a small charity to exist, but not only that, Bedford House is in a phase of growth and bouncing back after a difficult time since April 2020 due to lockdowns and restrictions.
Bewick Exhibition: We celebrated our 75th anniversary with an exhibition of artworks by Vivian Bewick, who was a local artist and tutor at Bedford House. The artworks were generously donated to Bedford House by his family in 2019-2020. The exhibition is still open to the public by appointments till 10 February 2021. The EFDC GrantAid Scheme provided match funding which has enabled Bedford House to organise this exhibition and the digitalisation of the artworks for the benefit of the community.
Click here to see pictures from the Bewick Exhibition and Private View.
Harvest Community Open Day – BHCA had a stall at the Harvest Community Open Day on Saturday 9 October at St John’s Church, to promote our courses and various activities. It was an important day in our community, to see the different organisations that bring life to the Buckhurst Hill community.
Annual Survey: Our annual survey showed an impressive 93% of responding students gave 4.9 out of 5 stars, in agreement of the statement that they enjoy and look forward to attending their course/s and leisure activities on offer at Bedford House. Sincere thanks to our amazing tutors.
Development – As an organisation we continue to develop and modernise. For example card payments were introduced in January 2020, facilitating the payment process. In early 2021 we secured a grant for IT modernisation of the infrastructure, and this was implemented during September 2021. We are planning on further IT modernisation during the academic year, such as integrated online enrolment and payments, subject to securing the necessary funding.
Wishing you all a happy new year,
BHCA Administration Team
14th December 2021
Last chance to enrol before end of term
Dear Members and Friends,
Enrol now to secure your course space/s in Term 2.
Bedford House will close for the break on Saturday 18 December and will reopen on Tuesday 4 January, the first day of Term 2.
Enrolments cannot be processed during the closure period.
Fill in the enrolment form online and email it to Enquiries@bedfordhouse.org.uk or fill in and pay in person at Bedford House before 18 December.
If you would like to speak to Administration staff when on site please ring the bell in Reception (first floor by the Pop-Up Art Stall) and one of the team members will come to assist you. This is in support of everyone’s health and safety.
Please note that some courses have already ended term 1. The following courses ended last week:
Art Appreciation with Ron Clark
Discover Painting and Drawing with Anne Daniels
Printmaking with Anne Daniels
If you have any questions please call the Administration Team on 020 8504 6668.
Season’s Greetings.
We look forward to seeing in 2022.
BHCA Administration Team
10th December 2021
Wreath Workshop
Dear Members and Friends,
Our Christmas Wreath Workshop is on tomorrow from 10am - 12:30pm at £35. There are still places, Gift yourself, a friend or both the experience of making Christmas wreaths before the holiday season.
Following a yearly Bedford House Tradition, join Anne Daniels, Susie Spain, Alice Spain for a relaxing and enjoyable Christmas Wreath workshop. This workshop provides an opportunity to learn how to design and make your own Christmas wreath. Sprigs of conifers, holly and ivy will be supplied as greenery. Also, pinecones in various shapes and sizes, either natural in colour or spray painted, will be available and can be used as decorations.
Please bring: Items you would like to add into your wreath to make it personal, or to match your house’s Christmas theme, such as small Christmas decorations or baubles or other natural materials. Ribbons to match specific colour schemes.
If you have any questions regarding these matters, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Best wishes,
BHCA Administration Team
7th December 2021
Lost and Found
Dear Members and Friends,
We seem to have accumulated quite a few items in our lost and found area. We would like to reunite these items with their owners before Friday 17 December. After that date they will be donated or repurposed. If any of the items below are yours, please email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 020 8504 6668 to arrange collection.
“I care about sight” l'occitane Tote bag
Mountain Warehouse Lightweight Jacket, Size 13
Wooly Hat
Nike socks (left in the hall)
Gold Necklace
Apple Airpods in a green case
Kuhn Rikon Thermal flask
If you have any questions regarding these matters, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Best wishes,
BHCA Administration Team
3rd December 2021
Wreath Workshop
Dear Members and Friends,
We have a limited offer on our Christmas Wreath Workshop on 11th December, 10am - 12:30pm at £25. Gift yourself, a friend or both the experience of making Christmas wreaths before the holiday season.
Following a yearly Bedford House Tradition, join Join Anne Daniels, Susie Spain, Alice Spain for a relaxing and enjoyable Christmas Wreath workshop. This workshop provides an opportunity to design and make your own Christmas wreath. You will wire bent twigs together to form a circular base of your chosen size. Then wind tinsel and/or sprigs of greenery around the base with wire. You will then finish by wiring some further decorative items on top of the greenery. Sprigs of conifers, holly and ivy will be supplied as greenery. Also, pinecones in various shapes and sizes, either natural in colour or spray painted, will be available and can be used as decorations.
Please bring: Items you would like to add into your wreath to make it personal, or to match your house’s Christmas theme, such as small Christmas decorations or baubles or other natural materials. Ribbons to match specific colour schemes
If you have any questions regarding these matters, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Best wishes,
BHCA Administration Team
2nd December 2021
Term 2 Enrolment
Dear Members and Friends,
The priority deadline for existing students ended on 28 November, and some courses are already full. Enrol now to secure a place on your favourite courses.
If you are unsure about which course to enrol on try a Taster Session or two, subject to place availability. We have a wide selection of courses, from Pilates to Sculpture in Clay. If you are thinking of trying something new, perhaps the courses listed below may be of interest. If not, see our course programme for the full course list.
Get in the festive spirit with our winter workshops.
Make beautiful wreaths and table decorations with Anne Daniels, Susie Spain and Alice Spain, on 11th December. You will complete the decoration at the workshop, but you can easily refresh it over the following weeks by taking out and and replacing any fresh flowers as required, ensuring you have table decorations ready for Christmas and the festive season.
Create intricate glass decorations with Pippa Davismoon on either 4th or 11th December. See our workshop page for images and pricing.
Remember also the unique handprinted Christmas Cards are still available from Reception 1st floor.
Needlecraft–Margaret French - Wednesday 14:00pm Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 05/01/2021
Ballet Beginners - Daniela Delerci - Tuesday 11:15 am Duration: 1 Hours - Course Start Date: 04/01/2022
Ballet Intermediate – Daniela Delerci - Tuesday 12:15 pm Duration: 1 Hours - Course Start Date: 04/01/2022
Sculpture in Clay - Esther Neslen - Tuesday 10:00 am Duration 2.5 Hours - Course Start Date: 04/01/2022
Hand Building in Clay - Sculpture and Pottery - Esther Neslen - Monday 19:15pm Duration 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 10/01/2022
Sculpture in Clay - Esther Neslen - Thursday 13:30 am Duration 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 04/01/2022
Guided Walks – Robert Levene - Tuesday 10:00 am Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 06/01/2022
Guided Walks – Robert Levene - Thursday 10:00 am Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 06/01/2022
Gentle Walks On Paths and Tracks - Robert Levene - Thursday 12:30pm Duration 1.25 Hours - Course Start: 06/01/2022
Pilates – Belinda Payne - Friday 9:45 am Duration: 1 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/01/2022
Vinyasa Yoga -Gemma Westall – Thursday 10:00 am Duration: 1.5 Hours - Course Start Date: 06/01/2022
Art for all – Tony Swann- Tuesday 14:00 pm Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 04/01/2022
Discover Drawing and Painting – Anne Daniels- Friday 10:00am Duration: 2.5 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/01/2022
Calligraphy – Gwyneth Hibbert- Thursday 13:00pm Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 06/01/2022
If you have any questions regarding the classes, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
30th November 2021
Small Businesses
Shop from the comfort of your home rather than braving the cold.
Some of the artists and crafters at the Winter Craft Fair can be reached via their websites, Instagram or email that you can visit in case you missed the opportunity to purchase on the day, need a refill or an additional gift.
Anna Bisset: Hand printed cards and artwork Website: annabisset.co.uk Email: abisset@btconnect.com Instagram: annabisset9901 Facebook: Anna Bisset.
Bedford House Printmakers: Unique, handprinted Christmas Cards https://www.bedfordhouse.org.uk/card-shop1
Tel: BHCA Office 020 8504 6668 www.BedfordHouse.org.uk
Talia by Tanya Fernandes Herbs and teas Instagram: tans_ferns
Email: taliashealth@gmail.com
Inspirational AF by Alisha Fernandes: Unique candles, handmade, vegan and eco-friendly. Email: inspoaf@gmail.com Instagram: inspo_af_
‘Chris’ Craft’ by Chris McLoughlin: Homeware, towels, cushions
Email: chrisaust97@gmail.com
Erica Johns: Kilnfired enamels, paintings, greeting cards
Website: www.ericajohns.co.uk.
The Debating Society: More info will be available soon.
Please contact the artists direct, or in case of Christmas Cards the Bedford House Administration Office.
Please note that face coverings are now again ‘strongly advised’ by government in enclosed settings, unless individuals are exempt.
Continuing the festive season theme, you can still book onto these December workshops:
Glass Fusing 4 December – Fused glass decorations to hang on your tree or around your home
Christmas Wreath 11 December – Design and make your own Christmas wreath
Christmas Wreath and Table Decoration 11 December – Design and make your own Christmas wreath AND table decoration
See the website for more information. Links below.
Lastly, enrol now to secure your place on courses in term 2 and 3. Some classes are already almost full.
26th November 2021
Priority Deadline and Workshops
The priority deadline is this Sunday, enrol to secure a place on your favourite courses. As from Monday onwards enrolment will be open to the public and first come first served will apply.
If you are unsure about which course to enrol on try a Taster Session or two, subject to place availability. We have a wide selection of courses, from Aerobics to Vinyasa Yoga. If you are thinking of trying something new, perhaps the courses listed below may be of interest. If not, see our course programme for the full course list.
Get in the festive spirit with our winter workshops.
Make beautiful wreaths and table decorations with Anne Daniels, Susie Spain and Alice Spain, on 11th December. You will complete the decoration at the workshop, but you can easily refresh it over the following weeks by taking out and replacing any fresh flowers as required. And have table decorations ready for Christmas and the festive season.
Create intricate glass decorations with Pippa Davismoon on either 4th or 11th December. See our workshop page for images and pricing.
Aerobics –Jennifer Humm - Monday 19:30pm Duration: 1 Hours - Course Start Date: 10/01/2021
Ballet Beginners - Daniela Delerci - Tuesday 11:15 am Duration: 1 Hours - Course Start Date: 04/01/2022
Ballet Intermediate – Daniela Delerci - Tuesday 12:15 pm Duration: 1 Hours - Course Start Date: 04/01/2022
Guided Walks – Robert Levene - Tuesday 10:00 am Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 04/01/2022
Guided Walks – Robert Levene - Thursday 10:00 am Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 06/01/2022
Gentle Walks On Paths and Tracks - Robert Levene - Thursday 12:30pm Duration 1.25 Hours - Course Start: 06/01/2022
Pilates – Belinda Payne - Friday 9:45 am Duration: 1 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/01/2022
Vinyasa Yoga -Gemma Westall – Thursday 10:00 am Duration: 1.5 Hours - Course Start Date: 06/01/2022
Art for all – Tony Swann- Tuesday 14:00 pm Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 04/01/2022
Discover Drawing and Painting – Anne Daniels- Friday 10:00am Duration: 2.5 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/01/2022
Calligraphy – Gwyneth Hibbert- Thursday 13:00pm Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 06/01/2022
If you have any questions regarding the classes, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
20th November 2021
Christmas Cards
The priority deadline for existing students to enrol is Sunday 28 November. From Monday 29 November enrolment will be open to the general public and first come first served will apply.
Remember you can enrol in person in the office, or you can email the enrolment form through to Enquiries@bedfordhouse.org.uk and we will call you for payment by card (or you can call us). You can also pay via BACS but it may take a couple of days to reach the bank account so we recommend that you call the administration office to confirm provisional booking to avoid disappointment. Please ensure any letters with enrolment forms and cheques reach us before the priority deadline of Sunday 28 November.
Limited edition Christmas cards with envelopes are now available from the office. A gift in itself these 12 wonderful designs are hand printed by our Printmakers.
Special Offer £5 for 5 cards or £1.25 each.
You can see the motifs on the ‘film strips’ in the lobby or you can go to the designated webpage (link below). Pre-order by emailing your order to the Administration Office on Admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk and we will prepare it for collection and card payment. If you wish we can post the order to you and add postage and packaging.
20th November 2021
Term 2
Dear Members and Friends,
Term two is steadily approaching, make sure to sign up to your favourite courses before spaces fill up! If you are unsure about which course to enrol on try a Taster Session or two, subject to place availability. We have a wide selection of courses, from Aerobics to Vinyasa Yoga. If you are thinking of trying something new, perhaps the courses listed below may be of interest. If not, see our course programme for the full course list.
Learning to Draw – Tony Swann - Monday 19:00pm Duration: 2 Hours -Course Start Date: 10/01/2022
Needlecraft – Margaret French - Wednesday 14:00 pm Duration: 2 Hours Course Start Date: 05/01/2022
Watercolours– Katherine Poluck - Monday 19:00pm Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 10/01/2022
Drawing and Painting AM – Anna Bisset Wednesday 10:00am Duration: 2.5 Hours
Course Start Date: 05/01/2022
Pilates – Belinda Payne - Friday 9:45 am Duration: 1.25 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/01/2022
Guided Walks E.P – Robert Levene - Thursday 12:45 am Duration: 1.5 Hours
Course Start Date: 06/01/2022
Discover Drawing and Painting – Anne Daniels Friday 10:00am Duration: 2.5 Hours
Course Start Date: 07/02/2022
Calligraphy – Gwyneth Hibbert- Thursday 13:00pm Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 06/01/2022
Handbuilding in Clay – Sculpture and Pottery – Esther Nelsen - Monday 19:15 pm Duration: 2 Hours
Course Start Date: 10/01/2022
Vinyasa Yoga – Gemma Westall – Thursday 10:00 am Duration: 1.5 Hours – Course Start Date: 06/01/2022
Glass Fusing – Pippa Davismoon – Wednesday 19:15pm Duration: 2 Hours – Course Start Date: 19/01/2022
20th November 2021
Term 2
Dear Members and Friends,
Term two is steadily approaching, make sure to sign up to your favourite courses before spaces fill up! If you are unsure about which course to enrol on try a Taster Session or two, subject to place availability. We have a wide selection of courses, from Aerobics to Vinyasa Yoga. If you are thinking of trying something new, perhaps the courses listed below may be of interest. If not, see our course programme for the full course list.
Learning to Draw – Tony Swann - Monday 19:00pm Duration: 2 Hours -Course Start Date: 10/01/2022
Needlecraft – Margaret French - Wednesday 14:00 pm Duration: 2 Hours Course Start Date: 05/01/2022
Watercolours– Katherine Poluck - Monday 19:00pm Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 10/01/2022
Drawing and Painting AM – Anna Bisset Wednesday 10:00am Duration: 2.5 Hours
Course Start Date: 05/01/2022
Pilates – Belinda Payne - Friday 9:45 am Duration: 1.25 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/01/2022
Guided Walks E.P – Robert Levene - Thursday 12:45 am Duration: 1.5 Hours
Course Start Date: 06/01/2022
Discover Drawing and Painting – Anne Daniels Friday 10:00am Duration: 2.5 Hours
Course Start Date: 07/02/2022
Calligraphy – Gwyneth Hibbert- Thursday 13:00pm Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 06/01/2022
Handbuilding in Clay – Sculpture and Pottery – Esther Nelsen - Monday 19:15 pm Duration: 2 Hours
Course Start Date: 10/01/2022
Vinyasa Yoga – Gemma Westall – Thursday 10:00 am Duration: 1.5 Hours – Course Start Date: 06/01/2022
Glass Fusing – Pippa Davismoon – Wednesday 19:15pm Duration: 2 Hours – Course Start Date: 19/01/2022
19th November 2021
Winter Workshops
Dear Members and Friends,
Get creative for the holiday season and construct some delightful ceramic gifts with Esther Neslen on Sundays 21 and 28 November. Learn and explore a variety of methods in ceramic making, and how to apply materials and techniques to decorate your finished work. It is never too late to enrol. Make bowls and simple ceramic forms from earthenware clay in the first session and glaze in the second session (firing required between sessions).
Following the tradition, two workshops ‘Christmas Wreath Making’ and ‘Christmas Wreath and Table Decoration Making’ both on 11 December. Join Anne Daniels, Susie Spain, Alice Spain for a relaxing and enjoyable Christmas Table Decoration Workshop. You will complete the decoration at the workshop, but you can easily refresh it over the following weeks by taking out and replacing any fresh flowers as required.
18th November 2021
Winter Craft Fair
Thank you to all those who came last Sunday to our Winter Craft Fair 2021. We had almost 200 visitors who enjoyed the 20 stalls and activities, including the café with homemade cakes and friendly atmosphere. The event keeps growing year on year and Bedford House is becoming an established destination for the Winter Craft Fair.
A special thanks to those who donated cakes to the café. The cakes were sold out in no time. Also, a special thanks to our volunteers; the Printmakers who volunteered across two stalls, Lorraine who ran the Creative Corner, Jonny on the tombola, and the Café team of volunteers. Trustees welcomed visitors at the entrance to the house.
We missed the much-loved DarkLights jazz music duo that had to cancel last minute due to health reasons, as did two stalls. A sign of the times, and we wish everyone a speedy recovery.
If you visited the Winter Craft Fair we would love to hear how you found the day overall, any highlights and suggestions as to what we can improve for the next fair. Please email your feedback to CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk or, if you wish to be anonymous please put a note in our letterbox.
You can find a few photos from the day if you scroll down the Winter Craft Fair webpage.
We already look forward to the next Fair.
12th November 2021
Winter Craft Fair
2 days to go to our much-loved Winter Craft Fair on Sunday 14 November from 11:15 to 17:15. Visit the Café in the Hall, enjoy the live music and try the mulled wine, tea or coffee, as well as homemade cakes which are now back on the menu.
DONATE A CAKE: If you are willing to bake and donate a cake for the Café you will help to make the Café experience extra special. The homemade cakes were missed by members at our past event, but are now back on the menu.
The Printmaking class will as usual be selling their outstanding and unique handmade Christmas cards (and non-seasonal cards), so you can stock up in time for posting. All year-round card sales help to raise funds for Bedford House.
There will be a broad range of crafts represented such as handmade eco-friendly candles, jewellery, herbal teas, handmade wooden items, Christmas and non-seasonal cards, handmade bags of all sizes, plants, Creative corner for all ages and much more. Other new initiatives are the launch of the Debating Society. You can also enrol for terms 2 and 3 and the workshops.
Bedford House is proud to support local Creatives and Crafters. Come show your support too!
9th November 2021
Winter Craft Fair
5 days to go to our much-loved Winter Craft Fair on Sunday 14 November from 11:15 to 17:15. Visit the Café in the Hall, enjoy the live music and try the mulled wine, tea or coffee, as well as homemade cakes which are now back on the menu.
DONATE A CAKE: If you are willing to bake and donate a cake for the Café you will help to make the Café experience extra special. The homemade cakes were missed by members at our past event, but are now back on the menu.
DONATE TIME: We need helpers in the café. If you are able to help for at least 1 hour between 15:00 and 17:30 please contact the Centre Manager on CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk
The Printmaking class will as usual be selling their outstanding and unique handmade Christmas cards (and non-seasonal cards), so you can stock up in time for posting. All year-round card sales help to raise funds for Bedford House.
There will be a broad range of crafts represented such as handmade eco-friendly candles, jewellery, herbal teas, handmade wooden items, Christmas and non-seasonal cards, handmade bags of all sizes, plants, and much more. Other new initiatives are the launch of the Debating Society. You can also enrol for terms 2 and 3 and the workshops.
Bedford House is proud to support local Creatives and Crafters. Come show your support too!
6th November 2021
Winter Craft Fair
Only 8 days to go to our much-loved Winter Craft Fair on Sunday 14 November from 11:15 to 17:15. Visit the Café in the Hall, enjoy the live music and try the mulled wine, tea or coffee, as well as homemade cakes which are now back on the menu.
DONATE A CAKE: If you are willing to bake and donate a cake for the Café you will help to make the Café experience extra special. The homemade cakes were missed by members at our past event, but are now back on the menu.
DONATE TIME: We need helpers in the café. If you are able to help for at least 1 hour between 12:00 and 17:30 please contact the Centre Manager on CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk
ARTIST MEMBERS: Have you considered sharing stalls to sell your artwork? Maybe a class stall or several classes sharing a stall? Contact the office to discuss.
The Printmaking class will as usual be selling their outstanding and unique handmade Christmas cards (and non-seasonal cards), so you can stock up in time for posting. All year-round card sales help to raise funds for Bedford House.
STALLS: There are still a couple of stall spaces left. To register for a stall please fill out a stall application and email it to CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk See the website for more information and to download the form Winter Craft Fair 2021 — Bedford House.
This year we are expanding into the Hall to provide more personal space to visitors and stall holders alike. There may even be space for a little dance… Come and see for yourself!
There will be a broad range of crafts represented such as handmade eco-friendly candles, jewellery, herbal teas, handmade wooden items, Christmas and non-seasonal cards, handmade bags of all sizes, plants, and much more. Other new initiatives are the launch of the Debating Society and the beginnings of Bedford House Dementia Friends. You can also enrol for terms 2 and 3 and the workshops.
Bedford House is proud to support local Creatives and Crafters. Come show your support too!
2nd November 2021
Winter Workshops
Try out one or more of our wide range of workshops starting with ‘Paint like Monet’ with Jason Rose on 20 November.
Create some delightful ceramic gifts with Esther Neslen on Sundays 21 and 28 November. Make bowls and simple ceramic forms from earthenware clay in the first session and glaze in the second session (firing required between sessions).
Create charming seasonal decoration and small glass items in the glass fusing workshop with Pippa Davismoon on 4 December.
‘Drawing Pets’ with Jason Rose on 4 December. A great treat for you or as a gift.
And lastly, following the tradition, two workshops ‘Christmas Wreath Making’ and ‘Christmas Wreath and Table Decoration Making’ with Anne Daniels, Susie Spain and Alice Spain, both on 11 December.
Check out our workshop page for more information.
29th October 2021
Winter Craft Fair
Only 12 days to go to our much-loved Winter Craft Fair on Sunday 14 November from 11:15 to 17:15. Visit the Café in the Hall, enjoy the live music and try the mulled wine, tea or coffee, as well as homemade cakes which are now back on the menu.
DONATE A CAKE: If you are willing to bake and donate a cake for the Café you will help to make the Café experience extra special. The homemade cakes were missed by members at our past event, but are now back on the menu.
DONATE TIME: We need helpers in the café. If you are able to help for at least 1 hour between 12:00 and 17:30 please contact the Centre Manager on CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk
ARTIST MEMBERS: Have you considered sharing stalls to sell your artwork? Maybe a class stall or several classes sharing a stall? Contact the office to discuss.
The Printmaking class will as usual be selling their outstanding and unique handmade Christmas cards (and non-seasonal cards), so you can stock up in time for posting. All year-round card sales help to raise funds for Bedford House.
STALLS: There are still a couple of stall spaces left. To register for a stall please fill out a stall application and email it to CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk See the website for more information and to download the form Winter Craft Fair 2021 — Bedford House.
This year we are expanding into the Hall to provide more personal space to visitors and stall holders alike. There may even be space for a little dance… Come and see for yourself!
29th October 2021
Winter Craft Fair
Only 12 days to go to our much-loved Winter Craft Fair on Sunday 14 November from 11:15 to 17:15. Visit the Café in the Hall, enjoy the live music and try the mulled wine, tea or coffee, as well as homemade cakes which are now back on the menu.
DONATE A CAKE: If you are willing to bake and donate a cake for the Café you will help to make the Café experience extra special. The homemade cakes were missed by members at our past event, but are now back on the menu.
DONATE TIME: We need helpers in the café. If you are able to help for at least 1 hour between 12:00 and 17:30 please contact the Centre Manager on CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk
ARTIST MEMBERS: Have you considered sharing stalls to sell your artwork? Maybe a class stall or several classes sharing a stall? Contact the office to discuss.
The Printmaking class will as usual be selling their outstanding and unique handmade Christmas cards (and non-seasonal cards), so you can stock up in time for posting. All year-round card sales help to raise funds for Bedford House.
STALLS: There are still a couple of stall spaces left. To register for a stall please fill out a stall application and email it to CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk See the website for more information and to download the form Winter Craft Fair 2021 — Bedford House.
This year we are expanding into the Hall to provide more personal space to visitors and stall holders alike. There may even be space for a little dance… Come and see for yourself!
26th October 2021
Winter Craft Fair
Warm up your vocal cords in time for the Festive Season with our Pop Up Choir workshop on Saturday 6 November at 10am with Davida Robinson. Become part of a fun and creative musical morning. Enjoy creating harmonies and learning great songs which will then be performed at the end of the session to family and friends! (No Christmas tunes in this workshop). Only £25. Contact the administration office at admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk.
Following on from the choir workshop, we have some other exciting workshops over the next few months, starting with Willow Weaving Scandi-style decorations such as an angel and a reindeer with Jill Leheup on 20 November.
‘Paint like Monet’ with Jason Rose also on 20 November.
Create some delightful ceramic gifts with Esther Neslen on Sundays 21 and 28 November. Make bowls and simple ceramic forms from earthenware clay in the first session and glaze in the second session (firing required between sessions).
Check out our workshop page for other workshops like Glass Fusing, Wreath making, and Drawing Pets etc.
23rd October 2021
Winter Craft Fair
Our much-loved Winter Craft Fair is taking place on Sunday 14 November from 11:15 to 17:15. Visit the Café in the Hall, enjoy the live music and try the mulled wine, tea or coffee, as well as homemade cakes which are now back on the menu.
DONATE A CAKE: If you are willing to bake and donate a cake for the Café you will help to make the Café experience extra special. The homemade cakes were missed by members at our past event, but are now back on the menu.
ARTIST MEMBERS: Have you considered sharing stalls to sell your artwork? Maybe a class stall or several classes sharing a stall? Contact the office to discuss.
The Printmaking class will as usual be selling their outstanding and unique handmade Christmas cards (and non-seasonal cards), so you can stock up in time for posting. All year-round card sales help to raise funds for Bedford House.
STALLS: There are still a couple of stall spaces left. To register for a stall please fill out a stall application and email it to CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk See the website for more information and to download the form Winter Craft Fair 2021 — Bedford House.
This year we are expanding into the Hall to provide more personal space to visitors and stall holders alike. There may even be space for a little dance… Come and see for yourself!
There will be a broad range of crafts represented such as handmade eco-friendly candles, jewellery, herbal teas, handmade wooden items, Christmas and non-seasonal cards, handmade bags of all sizes, plants, and much more. Other new initiatives are the launch of the Debating Society and the beginnings of Bedford House Dementia Friends. You can also enrol for terms 2 and 3 and the workshops.
Bedford House is proud to support small local Creatives and Crafters. Come show your support too!
21st October 2021
‘Vivian Bewick - A Retrospective’
Only one week to go until the Private View of the Vivian Bewick – a retrospective "exhibition".
A reminder to please email the Administration Office at admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk to confirm your attendance. You are welcome to bring a friend but if so please let us know in advance by email. The private viewing will showcase Drawings and Paintings by Vivian Bewick as part of our 75th anniversary year.
We are delighted to be able to exhibit a broad collection of his work ranging from first world war drawings and sketches to the many paintings he produced over his lifetime.
The viewing for Bedford House members is 6pm-8pm on the 29th October 2021. The exhibition is open to the public from 1st November 2021 to mid-February 2022 by appointment.
To make an appointment after 1st November please call the Administration Office on 020 8504 6668.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Administration Office.
We look forward to seeing you and share a glass of wine / soft drink and nibbles.
19th October 2021
‘Vivian Bewick - A Retrospective’
Only one week to go until the Private View of the Vivian Bewick – a retrospective "exhibition".
A reminder to please email the Administration Office at admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk to confirm your attendance. You are welcome to bring a friend but if so please let us know in advance by email. The private viewing will showcase Drawings and Paintings by Vivian Bewick as part of our 75th anniversary year.
We are delighted to be able to exhibit a broad collection of his work ranging from first world war drawings and sketches to the many paintings he produced over his lifetime.
The viewing for Bedford House members is 6pm-8pm on the 29th October 2021. The exhibition is open to the public from 1st November 2021 to mid-February 2022 by appointment.
To make an appointment after 1st November please call the Administration Office on 020 8504 6668.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Administration Office.
We look forward to seeing you and share a glass of wine / soft drink and nibbles.
19th October 2021
Winter Workshops
Our workshop programme is starting this week with ‘Watercolour Pencils’ with Jason Rose.
Saturday 30 October, join Katherine’s ‘Painting Trees in Watercolour’ workshop. The session covers wet-on-wet techniques and colour mixing, beginners welcome. You will be producing study sketches and artwork that will be vibrant and interesting. Make sure to bring reference images.
Saturday 6 November, get an energy boost with the exciting Pop-up Choir Workshop. Join Davida Robinson and become part of a fun and creative musical morning. Enjoy creating harmonies and learning great songs which will then be performed at the end of the session to family and friends! No prior singing experience required. You will enjoy this session whether this is your first time singing, or you have experience.
On Saturdays 21 and 28 November, come and create some delightful ceramic gifts with Esther Neslen. Create bowls and simple ceramic forms from earthenware clay in the first session and glaze in the second session (firing required between sessions). Using the pinch pot method you can design your own unique pieces, considering form and embellishment.
A date for your diary, our much-loved Winter Craft Fair is back this year on 14 November. Keep the day free to visit us, or register now to have a stall. See the website for more information Winter Craft Fair 2021 — Bedford House
14th October 2021
Winter Workshops
We are approaching the start of our Winter Workshops! Come along and learn to use watercolour pencils with Jason Rose. Or paint trees in watercolours with Katherine Poluck. Get festive and make Christmas wreaths with Anne Daniels or glass Christmas decoration with Pippa Davismoon. Everything from festive workshops to special one-off workshops. Opportunities to make items to give away or to treat yourself, or the gift of sharing a workshop experience. See our workshop page for more information.
A date for your diary, our much-loved Winter Craft Fair is back this year on 14 November. Keep the day free if you are planning on visiting us or register now to have a stall. See the website for more information Winter Craft Fair 2021 — Bedford House.
If you would like to try out our courses, please see the course programme for more information.
12th October 2021
‘Vivian Bewick - A Retrospective’
Dear Members and Friends,
Tony Oliva, Chairman of Bedford House Community Association invites you to attend a private view of our exhibition of the Drawings and Paintings of Vivian Bewick as part of our 75th anniversary year activities. Please RSVP. You are welcome to bring a friend but if so please let us know in advance when you RSVP.
The Bewick family have kindly donated a collection of drawings and paintings by the artist Vivian Bewick who along with Walter E. Spradbery (1889 – 1969) helped to establish Bedford House after the second world war. Vivian was a key mover in establishing art classes at Bedford House which still continue until now as one of our key areas of activity.
Vivian had already left us a legacy of his work with the murals he painted on the ceiling in the lobby of Bedford house in the 1950’s which were later restored by Essex County Council in 1992.
We are delighted to be able to exhibit a broad collection of his work ranging from first world war drawings and sketches to the many paintings he produced over his lifetime.
I hope that you will be able to attend this event and look forward to meeting you then. I would be obliged if you can confirm your attendance by Friday 22 October 2021.
RSVP to; Ibrahim in the Administration Office at Admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk.
The exhibition is open to the public from 1st November 2021 to mid-February 2022 by appointment. To make an appointment after 1st November please call the Administration Office on 020 8504 6668.
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact the Administration Office.
8th October 2021
Winter Workshops
Dear Members and Friends,
We are excited to launch our Winter Workshops. Get festive and make Christmas wreaths with Anne Daniels or glass Christmas decoration with Pippa Davismoon. Everything from festive workshops to special one-off workshops. Opportunities to make items to give away or to treat yourself, or the gift of sharing a workshop experience. See our workshop page for more information.
Our much-loved Winter Craft Fair is back this year on 14 November. Keep the day free if you are planning on visiting us or register now to have a stall. See the website for more information Winter Craft Fair 2021 — Bedford House.
If you would like to try out our courses, please see the course programme for more information.
If you have any questions regarding these matters, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
6th October 2021
New Opportunities - Become A Tutor.
We are pleased to share with you that we are planning on organising some new courses. If you know anyone who may be interested in tutoring at Bedford House, or if you have expertise yourself, in any of the subjects listed below please contact the Centre Manager Lykke, centremanager@bedfordhouse.org.uk to discuss in the first instance.
Bridge
Tai chi
Jewellery Making
Poetry
Gardening
Bird watching
Sewing
You can find more information about being a tutor at Bedford House on our website Vacancies — Bedford House
If you have any questions regarding these matters, feel free to email Lykke Leszczynski, Centre Manager, at CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
5th October 2021
Community Matters And Dates For Your Diary
We have a number of community matters to share with you.
Harvest Community Open Day - Visit the Bedford House stall at the Harvest Community Open Day on Saturday 9 October 2-4pm at St John’s Church.
We look forward to meeting our community partners.
Winter Workshops – Our Winter workshop programme will be released this week. In term 1 our 10 events have a mixture of topics kicking off with ‘How to use watercolour pencils’ on 23 October, followed by ‘Pop-Up Choir’, ‘Willow Weaving’ and ‘Glass Fusing’, not to mention the ever popular Christmas Wreath and Table Decoration Workshops. Opportunities to make items to give away or to treat yourself, or the gift of sharing a workshop experience. For more details keep an eye on the website or further mailings.
Winter Craft Fair 2021 – our much loved Winter Craft Fair is back this year on 14 November. Keep the day free if you are planning on visiting us, or register now to have a stall. See the website for more information Winter Craft Fair 2021 — Bedford House
New Permitted Development – We have been informed that a new development is being proposed at Glenmead, Palmerston Road, Buckhurst Hill IG9 5N, very close to Bedford House. You have the opportunity to comment in writing to appcomment@eppingforestdc.gov.uk by 9am on 6 October 2021. Quote ref EPF/2429/21.
Proposal: http://planpub.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/NorthgatePublicDocs/00839331.pdf
There is a council meeting for this case at Queen’s Road library on Thursday 7th October at 7pm. Please come along if you can.
30th September 2021:
Arts and Crafts
Dear Members and Friends,
If creativity is your getaway, why not try Handbuilding in Clay, with Esther Neslen. Learn and explore a variety of methods in 3D sculpture, and how to apply materials and techniques to decorate your finished work. Esther also teaches Sculpture in Clay on Tuesdays at 10:00 and Wednesdays at 13:30.
On Monday evenings we also have Learning to Draw with Tony Swann. Learn how to approach drawing, building up from the basics and utilising different techniques and media including pencil, charcoal, and others. Tony also teaches Art for All on Tuesday at 14:00, where he teaches techniques and approaches that are fundamental to all artistic mediums and those that are unique to acrylics, watercolours, pastels, pencils, and other media will be looked at. Supportive and friendly tuition with all abilities welcome. Tuesday evenings it’s Oil Painting with Tony Swann open to all abilities, Beginners to intermediate.
28th September 2021:
Bedford House Summer Exhibition 2021 - Photos
Dear Members and Friends,
July now seems like a long time ago, but why not take a moment to revisit the Summer Exhibition 2021.
It was a enjoyable day, one of the few dry days in July which enabled us to enjoy the Garden Café both under cover in the gazebos and ‘in the open’ on the lawn. There was something for everyone with hundreds of artworks such as paintings and drawings, pottery and sculptures, and needlework on display, to enjoy and buy.
We also had a tombola, supported by local businesses, a hugely successful plant stall supported by Matthew’s Nursery, a book and arts supplies stall, and a garden development stall.
The live music was the cherry on the cake and the afternoon flew past.
If you exhibited we would like to thank you for sharing your artwork with us all.
Please share the links to the exhibition with your friends and family.
Below are some of the pictures from the summer exhibition, make sure to check out the website for them all!
23rd September 2021:
Winter Craft Fair – Sunday 14 November - Call To Stallholders
Dear Members and Friends,
The Bedford House Winter Craft Fair is just around the corner, less than 2 months away.
If you are interested in having a stall at the Craft Fair please fill in the membership form and stall application form. Then send them to Lykke Leszczynski, Centre Manager on CentreManager@bedfordhouse.org.uk.
The Winter Craft Fair is taking place on Sunday 14 November 11:00 to 17:00 at Bedford House.
Demand for stalls is usually high so do not delay registering to avoid disappointment.
We look forward to seeing you either as a stallholder or as a visitor. Keep the date free.
21st September 2021:
“Vaccinator - Self Portrait”
We would like to congratulate Satwant, one of the Bedford House Arts and Crafts students, who has had his watercolour painting called “Vaccinator – self-portrait” accepted by the Royal Academy’s Summer Exhibition 2021. You can find the original on display at the RA until the end of the Summer Exhibition.
The painting is also a reminder of the dedicated and hardworking staff that makes the NHS, and that they are still counting on all of us to support them and each other to stay safe during the coming months.
Well done to Satwant for making it to the RA.
If you are inspired to try out our Watercolour course, please see the course programme for more information.
16th September 2021:
Needlecraft
Dear Members and Friends,
Beat the crowd, by making your presents before the festive season. Our Needlecraft classes will equip you with one-on-one teaching and information. Choose your own projects. Our needlecraft expert, Margaret French can help you decide on a project if you are unsure where to start, and help ideas come to life! Learn Applique, Macrame, Patchwork & Quilting to name just a few. The possibilities are endless. Nothing is impossible.
Come and learn new needlework skills, with Margaret French trained by the Royal School of Needlework. Some examples of what Margaret can teach: Applique, Beading, Canvas work, Drawn thread, Embroidery, Faggotting, Gold work, Hardanger, Inlay, Jacobean, Knitting, Lace, Macrame, Needleweaving, Opus Anglicanium, Patchwork, Quilting, Richelieu, Shadow work, Tapestry, Upholstery, Velvet work, White work, Xylopyrography, Yak lace & Zante lace.
Please see the course programme for more information.
If you have any questions regarding the classes, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
16th September 2021:
Glass Fusing
Dear members and Friends,
Learn the art of kiln formed glass. Turn glass into beautiful decorative pieces. Look below at some of the pieces made in Pippa’s Glass Fusing course. You could make something similar, all it takes is time and practice. Learn basic techniques and explore ways to enrich designs. You can make beautiful things from the first week of the glass fusing class such as pendants or decorative pieces. From the second week you will have pieces to take home. Class sizes are small for optimal learning. The glass work you can do in this class is initially small-scale jewellery and handheld sized pieces. As skills progress larger pieces may be possible.
Please see the course programme for more information.
If you have any questions regarding the classes, feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
14th September 2021:
Visit our Arts & Crafts Supplies Pop-Up Stall
Dear Members and Friends,
Visit our Arts & Crafts Supplies Pop-Up Stall.
Items from as little as 25p.
Pick and Mix from same price range.
The Pop-Up Stall is located in the Reception on the 1st floor landing.
We look forward to your visit.
Not enrolled yet? You can still join, subject to availability.
Unsure? Try a Taster Session.
BHCA Administration Team
11th September 2021:
Wellbeing, Health and Fitness Courses
Dear members and Friends,
If creativity is your getaway, why not try some of the arts and crafts courses we have at Bedford House. Perhaps Needlecraft, Margaret French can teach over 26 sewing techniques, with endless possibilities of what you could make. You choose your own project.
Monday evenings is Handbuilding in clay, with Esther Neslen. Learn and explore a variety of methods in 3D sculpture, and how to apply materials and techniques to decorate your finished work. Esther also teaches Sculptures in Clay on Tuesdays at 10:00am and Wednesdays at 13:30.
Also, on Monday evenings is Learning to Draw with Tony Swann. Learn how to approach drawing, building up from the basics and utilising different techniques and media including pencil, charcoal and others.
A friendly reminder that Glass Fusing starts 29th September 2021. Learn basic techniques and explore ways to enrich designs. You can make beautiful things from the first week of the Glass Fusing class such as pendants or decorative pieces. From the second week you will have pieces to take home.
Bridge beginner and intermediate classes commenced last week, there are still spaces. Both classes consist of a short talk, using the board and/or quiz sheets. The rest of the time will be spent playing hands that relate to the talk, the cards are prepared beforehand so that they can match the discussion. The objective is for you to learn and improve. But also, for you to ENJOY THE GAME! The beginners course sticks to basic ACOL. At the end of the course the beginner should be able to bid and play most hands. Intermediates, develop your game in a friendly bridge sessions. • Transfers • Weak-twos • Landy • Losing trick count • Play of the card.
Please see the course programme for more information.
If you have any questions regarding the classes, feel free to email bhadmin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
11th September 2021:
Arts & Crafts, Needlecraft and Bridge
Dear members and Friends,
If creativity is your getaway, why not try some of the arts and crafts courses we have at Bedford House. Perhaps Needlecraft, Margaret French can teach over 26 sewing techniques, with endless possibilities of what you could make. You choose your own project.
Monday evenings is Handbuilding in clay, with Esther Neslen. Learn and explore a variety of methods in 3D sculpture, and how to apply materials and techniques to decorate your finished work. Esther also teaches Sculptures in Clay on Tuesdays at 10:00am and Wednesdays at 13:30.
Also, on Monday evenings is Learning to Draw with Tony Swann. Learn how to approach drawing, building up from the basics and utilising different techniques and media including pencil, charcoal and others.
A friendly reminder that Glass Fusing starts 29th September 2021. Learn basic techniques and explore ways to enrich designs. You can make beautiful things from the first week of the Glass Fusing class such as pendants or decorative pieces. From the second week you will have pieces to take home.
Bridge beginner and intermediate classes commenced last week, there are still spaces. Both classes consist of a short talk, using the board and/or quiz sheets. The rest of the time will be spent playing hands that relate to the talk, the cards are prepared beforehand so that they can match the discussion. The objective is for you to learn and improve. But also, for you to ENJOY THE GAME! The beginners course sticks to basic ACOL. At the end of the course the beginner should be able to bid and play most hands. Intermediates, develop your game in a friendly bridge sessions. • Transfers • Weak-twos • Landy • Losing trick count • Play of the card.
Please see the course programme for more information.
If you have any questions regarding the classes, feel free to email bhadmin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668
Best wishes
BHCA Administration Team
9th September 2021:
75 Years with Bedford House
This year Bedford House Community Association, in Buckhurst Hill, celebrates 75 years of running courses and leisure activities for the community. 75 years is an impressive length of time for a small charity to exist, but not only that, Bedford House is in a phase of growth and bouncing back after a difficult time since April 2020 due to lockdowns and restrictions.
We will be celebrating with an exhibition of artworks by Vivian Bewick, who was a local artist and tutor at Bedford House. The artworks were generously donated to Bedford House by his family in 2019-2020. The exhibition will open to the public from 1 November 2021. More information to follow.
Thank you to those of you who found the time to take part in our Annual Survey where an impressive 93% of responding students/members gave 4.9 out of 5 stars in agreement of the statement that they enjoy and look forward to attending their course/s and leisure activities on offer at Bedford House. Sincere thanks to our amazing tutors.
Development – As an organisation we continue to develop and modernise and for example card payments were introduced in January 2020, facilitating the payment process. In early 2021 we secured a grant for IT modernisation of the infrastructure, and this is being implemented during September 2021. We are planning on further IT modernisation during the academic year, such as integrated online enrolment and payments, subject to securing the necessary funding.
We are aware that the current enrolment process may seem cumbersome to some customers but the system we have piloted this year has created a more organised enrolment process, overall avoiding for instance overbooking. The Administration Office is managing well with the volume of transactions being processed, bearing in mind the manual systems that are still in use whilst we apply for funding to modernise, and the administrative resources available. With less than 2 administrators (full time equivalent) in the office it is easy to understand that the workload is heavy, in particular during periods of enrolment for almost 40 courses. We also have a dedicated part time administrative volunteer providing an additional 20+ work hours every week, an invaluable resource of support.
We look forward to seeing you during term 1.
Best wishes,
Lykke Leszczynski, Centre Manager
7th September 2021:
Welcome to the 2021-2022 Academic Year
Dear Members and Friends,
Welcome to the 2021-22 academic year.
Term one starts this week, week commencing 6 September, except for
Handbuilding in Clay –Sculpture and Pottery – Monday Evening with Esther Neslen - Starting 13 September
Drawing & Painting afternoons with Anna Bisset starting on 15 September
Art Appreciation with Ron Clark starting on 16 September
Discovering Drawing and Painting, and Printmaking with Anne Daniels starting on 24 September.
Glass Fusing with Pippa Davismoon starting 29 September.
Enrol now to avoid disappointment as classes are filling up. If you are unsure about which course to enrol on try a Taster Session or two, subject to place availability.
PS. The Kitchenette space is now open for usage again. For hygiene reasons the crockery is disposable such as cups and stirrer. Drinks consumables (tea, coffee, milk and sugar) are in individually wrapped portions.
We look forward to seeing you.
3rd September 2021:
Course Programme #3
Dear Members and Friends,
We are just 3 days away from starting our September programmes (Term 1). We have a wide selection of courses, from Aerobics to Bridge and Needlecraft. If you are thinking of trying something new, the courses listed below may be of interest. If not, see our course programme for the full course list.
Learning to Draw – Tony Swann - Monday 19:00pm Duration: 2 Hours -Course Start Date: 06/09/202
Needlecraft – Margaret French - Wednesday 14:00 pm Duration: 2 Hours Course Start Date: 08/09/2021
Watercolours– Katherine Poluck - Monday 19:00pm Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/09/2021
Sketching and Acrylics – Jason Rose - Thursday 10:00am Duration: 2 Hours Course Start Date: 07/09/2021
Exploring Painting – Jason Rose Tuesday 10:00am Duration: 2 Hours
Course Start Date: 07/09/2021
Pilates Intermediate – Belinda Payne - Friday 9:45 am Duration: 1.25 Hours - Course Start Date: 10/09/2021
Guided Walks E.P – Robert Levene - Thursday 12:45 am Duration: 1.5 Hours
Course Start Date: 09/09/2021
Bridge Beginners – Malcom Fenton - Tuesday 10:00am Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/09/2021
Bridge intermediate - Malcom Fenton - Tuesday 14:00pm Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/09/2021
Sculpture in Clay – Esther Nelsen - Monday 19:15 pm Duration: 2 Hours
Course Start Date: 06/09/2021
Ballet Intermediate – Daniela Delerci – Tuesday 12:15pm Duration 1 Course Start Date: 07/09/2021
Glass Fusing – Pippa Davismoon Wednesday 19:15 pm Duration: 2 Hours
Course Start Date: 29/09/2021
20th August 2021:
Course Programme #2
We are gearing up to start our September programmes (Term 1). We have a wide selection of courses, from Aerobics to Bridge. If you are thinking of trying something new, perhaps the courses listed below may be of interest. If not, see our course programme for the full course list.
Learning to Draw – Tony Swann - Monday 19:00pm Duration: 2 Hours -Course Start Date: 06/09/2021
Needlecraft – Margaret French - Wednesday 14:00 pm Duration: 2 Hours Course Start Date: 08/09/2021
Watercolours– Katherine Poluck - Monday 19:00pm Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/09/2021
Sketching and Acrylics – Jason Rose - Thursday 10:00am Duration: 2 Hours Course Start Date: 07/09/2021
Keep Fit 60+ – Marion Pretty - Tuesday 10:00 am Duration: 1 Hours Course Start Date: 07/09/2021
Pilates Beginners – Belinda Payne - Friday 11:15 am Duration: 1 Hours - Course Start Date: 10/09/2021
Vinyasa Yoga -Gemma Westall – Thursday 10:00 am Duration: 1.5 Hours - Course Start Date: 09/09/2021
Art for all – Tony Swann- Tuesday 14:00 pm Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/09/2021
Calligraphy – Gwyneth Hibbert- Thursday 13:00pm Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/09/2021
Bridge Beginners – Malcom Fenton - Tuesday 10:00am Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/09/2021
Bridge intermediate - Malcom Fenton - Tuesday 14:00pm Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/09/2021
13th August 2021:
Annual Survey Reminder
Dear Members and Friends,
Thank you to those of you who have already completed our Annual Survey. Your responses have already provided a great insight into how we can improve the Bedford House experience.
If you haven't completed the survey, we would greatly appreciate it if you could spare a few minutes to do so now. Your feedback is invaluable to us. Please click this link to complete: BHCA Annual Survey.
Thank you in advance.
Best wishes,
BHCA Administration Team
12th August 2021:
Course Programme
Dear Members and Friends,
We are gearing up to start our September programmes (Term 1). We have a wide selection of courses, from Aerobics to Bridge. If you are thinking of trying something new, perhaps the courses listed below may be of interest. If not, see our course programme for the full course list.
Aerobics –Jennifer Humm - Monday 19:30pm Duration: 1 Hours - Course Start Date: 06/09/2021
Ballet Beginners - Daniela Delerci - Tuesday 11:15 am Duration: 1 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/09/2021
Ballet Intermediate – Daniela Delerci - Tuesday 12:15 pm Duration: 1 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/09/2021
Guided Walks – Robert Levene - Tuesday 10:00 am Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/09/2021
Guided Walks – Robert Levene - Thursday 10:00 am Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/09/2021
Pilates Beginners – Belinda Payne - Friday 11:15 am Duration: 1 Hours - Course Start Date: 10/09/2021
Vinyasa Yoga -Gemma Westall – Thursday 10:00 am Duration: 1.5 Hours - Course Start Date: 09/09/2021
Art for all – Tony Swann- Tuesday 14:00 pm Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/09/2021
Discover Drawing and Painting – Anne Daniels- Friday 10:00am Duration: 2.5 Hours - Course Start Date: 20/09/2021
Calligraphy – Gwyneth Hibbert- Thursday 13:00pm Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/09/2021
Bridge Beginners – Malcom Fenton - Tuesday 10:00am Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/09/2021
Bridge intermediate - Malcom Fenton - Tuesday 14:00pm Duration: 2 Hours - Course Start Date: 07/09/2021
11th August 2021:
Painting Landscapes and Ballet
Our Summer School 2021 programme is nearly over, but it’s not too late to try something new or try out a taster session in advance of the September courses.
Don’t miss the ‘Painting landscapes and skies’ condensed course with 3-sessions over 2 weeks for just £50, starting next week on 18th August. The course focuses on using various techniques with acrylic paint to illustrate skies and landscapes, you can bring images of landscapes you would like to draw as reference, beginners welcome.
Try out a Ballet taster session on Thursday 19th August, This Ballet class specializes in Character dance, a stylized representation of traditional folk or national dance. This class is beginner friendly, feel free to try it out!
18th August 2021 2:00 - 4:30pm – Painting Landscapes and Skies - Three sessions over 2 weeks 3 sessions for £50
19th August 2021 3:00 – 4:30pm – Ballet with Character Dance - £12 a session
7th August 2021:
Annual Survey
Thank you for being a Member or Friend of Bedford House. The 2020/21 school year is coming to an end, and we are keen to know how you have found the experience over these last 18 months. We would like to get your feedback via the annual survey which will only take a few minutes to fill in. We hope you have enjoyed the year with Bedford House, but we are also aware that one can always make improvements. We are keen to understand how we can better meet your needs, and whether you would like more of the same or new activities, activities at different times, or perhaps support in different areas such as help with technology and staying safe online, or courses on how to keep positive in these challenging times, or maybe courses on being energy efficient. You name it and we will aim to provide it! Thank you for taking the time to do the survey. You will help us to understand what we do well, where we need to get better, and innovation needed for the year ahead. We look forward to hearing from you via the survey.
4th August 2021:
Last Chance
Dear Members and Friends,
Belinda has a Pilates masterclass this Friday 10:30 – 12:00, at just £12 a session. We will allow you to pay before the class, but please confirm that you can attend, by either calling 0208 504 6668 Or emailing bhadmin@bedfordhouse.org.uk .
Belinda is also running ballet and Pilates classes next week through to the end of august, all at £12 a session. Details listed below:
Ballet Masterclass with Character Dance 15:00 – 16:30 12th August
Pilates Masterclass 10:30 – 12:00 13th August
Ballet Masterclass with Character Dance 15:00 – 16:30 19th August
Pilates Masterclass 10:30 – 12:00 20th August
Ballet Masterclass with Character Dance 15:00 – 16:30 26th August
Pilates Masterclass 10:30 – 12:00 27th August
If you are interested feel free to call or email
3rd August 2021:
Pippa is running a two-session course on Fusing Coloured Glass. On Wednesday 4th &11th August, 14:00 - 16:30, two sessions for £59.
This 2-week course is an introduction to the exciting possibilities of warm glass; using fusing techniques to form glass in a kiln. The course will include hands on work, practical demonstrations, and individual instruction. You will be making fused glass pendants, ring dishes or light catchers. Learn how to cut glass, shape and work with both transparent and opaque colour using sheet glass and frits. You’ll learn what happens to glass during the firing cycle and glass compatibility. Suitable for complete beginners and returners.
Book by either calling or 0208 504 6668 Or emailing bhadmin@bedfordhouse.org.uk
30th July 2021:
Dear Members and Friends,
Last chance
Looking for a creative class or fitness class, or maybe both. We have summer classes you might be interested in, and you can pay per session!
Arts & Crafts
Wildflowers in Watercolours with Katherine Poluck 2nd,9th,16th August– 14:00 – 16:00 3 sessions £49
Handicraft – Recycle, Upcycle, Repair Workshop 12th19th,26th August – 14:00 – 16:00 Each session for £19.50
From a Handful of Clay with Pippa Davismoon 9th,16th August 15:00 – 17:00 - Two Sessions £59
Fusing Coloured Glass with Pippa Davismoon 5th,12th August 15:00 – 17:00 Two Sessions £59
Health & Fitness
Aerobics with Jennifer Humm 2nd, 9th, 16th ,23rd August – 19:30 – 20:30
4 Sessions £30.50
Ballet Masterclass with Belinda Payne 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th August 15:00 – 16:30 £12 Per Session
Pilates Masterclass with Belinda Payne 7th,13th,20th,27th August 10:30 – 12:00 £12 Per Session
Hurry places are filling up!27th July 2021:
Plant Sale and Summer School 2021
Dear Members and Friends
Thank you to those of you who came to the Summer Exhibition 2021. Approximately 250 visitors attended on the day, and informal feedback indicates that visitors enjoyed the event. We would love to hear your feedback on the event, so please send us an email on bhadmin@bedfordhouse.org.uk.
We still have a few plants for sale at Exhibition prices. Please contact Caroline to view and purchase flowers on 020 8504 6668 or enquiries@bedfordhouse.org.uk .
Summer School 2021 has started and there are still places on some of the workshops and short courses (see link below).
Belinda is running an exciting Ballet Masterclass on Thursday 29th July 3:00 – 4:30pm, come along for a taster at just £12, if you enjoyed it, there’s four more classes the following weeks.
Enrolment for the next academic year is also well under way so enrol without delay, to secure a place on your preferred courses (see links below).
Please note that the Administration Office is open 10:00 to 13:00 from next week during August, or by appointment. Please ring in advance to confirm opening times if you need our assistance outside 10:00 to 13:00.22nd July 2021:
Dear Members and Friends,
Only 2 days to go to the Summer Exhibition where you can visit the garden dressed up for the occasion as a market square.
Bring a friend, spread the word, share our posters.
When you have looked at the exhibition you can have a cuppa and cake whilst perhaps considering becoming a trustee, or just listen to the birds. Or discuss the plans for a sensory garden experience. Do a Pilates Taster, plant a seed, buy and read a book, make paper flowers, and more…
And we have made things simple … This year you can pay by card as well as money at the stalls in the Summer Exhibition. There is no stopping progress.
Come join us and listen to live music (1-3pm) and enjoy the various stalls and artwork, in our lovely garden.
- Stalls
- Refreshments
- Tombola
- Plant Safe
- Creative Corner
- Book Stalls
- Art Supplies Stall
- 10-minute Pilates Tasters
- PlantBritain, put Bedford House and Buckhurst Hill on the map
- Discover our garden Development Plans
- Enrolment on 2021-22 Courses21th July 2021:
Dear Members and Friends,
Only 3 days to go to the Summer Exhibition where you can visit the garden dressed up for the occasion as a market square.
Bring a friend, spread the word, share our posters.
When you have looked at the exhibition you can have a cuppa and cake whilst perhaps considering becoming a trustee, or just listen to the birds. Or discuss the plans for a sensory garden experience. Do a Pilates Taster, plant a seed, buy and read a book, make paper flowers, and more…
And we have made things simple … This year you can pay by card as well as money at the stalls in the Summer Exhibition. There is no stopping progress.
If you have items to DONATE please bring them to the Administration Office by 2pm on Thursday 22 July 2021.
We are particularly interested in
- Items for the tombola
- Books in general
- Art books
- Art materials new and partially used
- Garden plants, seedlings, and seeds
- Gardening tools – the most common tools such as forks, spades, secateurs, rakes trowels, weeders, watering cans. We cannot accept any electric or petrol driven equipment.
We have great plans for the Bedford House garden. Come along on the day to know more and plant a plant (your own maybe) to put Bedford House on the map via the BBC's PlantBritain initiative.
If you have any questions regarding donations, please contact Caroline on Enquiries@bedfordhouse.org.uk or Lykke@bedfordhouse.org.uk
We look forward to seeing you all!
16th July 2021:
Only 8 days to go to the Summer Exhibition where you can visit the garden dressed up for the occasion as a market square.
Bring a friend, spread the word, share our posters.
When you have looked at the exhibition you can have a cuppa and cake whilst perhaps considering becoming a trustee, or just listen to the birds. Or discuss the plans for a sensory garden experience. Do a Pilates Taster, plant a seed, buy and read a book, make paper flowers, and more…
14th July 2021:
The Summer Exhibition 2021 is now around the corner, on 24 July 10:00 to 16:00. You can find more information on our Summer Exhibition webpage.
Donate - If you have any of the items below that you are able to donate please bring them to the BHCA Administration Office by Wednesday 21 July 2021.
Books in general
Art Books
Art materials new and partially used
Garden Plants, seedlings and seeds
Gardening tools - the most common tools such as forks, spades, secateurs, rakes, trowels, weeders, watering cans. We cannot accept any electric or petrol driven equipment.
This year we have so far raised over £500 through donated items.
We have great plans for the Bedford House garden. Come along on the day to know more and plant a plant (your own maybe) to put Bedford House on the map via the BBC's PlantBritain initiative.8th July 2021:
We are excited to announce the Summer Exhibition 2021 is taking place on Saturday 24th July 2021 10am - 4pm.
A great opportunity to view and share the fabulous artworks and achievements by our Members and to visit the stalls in the garden with Refreshments, Plant Sale, Live music, Book and Art stall, Tombola, PlantBritain, and hear more about our exciting plans for the garden. 30th June 2021:
Welcome
I am writing to inform you that we have appointed a new staff member to the Administration Team. We are delighted to welcome Ibrahim Abdillahi. He is keen to get to know you all, but as ever there is a lot to learn and get used to in a new job, so please be patient while he settles in.
Farewell
We are sad to see Micheline Macavoy leaving Bedford House, but we are also very pleased for her that she is continuing her career path in her profession. We wish her good luck for the future. Her last day is Friday 2 July 2021. If you wish to send her a leaving message you can reach her on bhadmin@bedfordhouse.org.uk
26th June 2021:
Time to pencil the Summer Exhibition into your diaries as it is just four weeks away on Saturday 24th July, 10am - 4pm. We are so excited to celebrate the work of our talented students and the end of a difficult academic year.
Alongside the Summer Exhibition there will be:
Book stall
Plant stall
Art supplies stall
Tombola
Cream Teas and refreshments
Craft Corner for accompanied children
and more!
We look forward to celebrating with you soon!
24th June 2021:
Jacqui Bonham's Summer Yoga class (Wednesdays) is already full, but we have just launched a new 3-week Tuesday alternative of the same class. We advise sending your forms in as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. If a course isn't for you, we have a one-off yoga session with Gemma Westall on Monday 26th July. Lots of options to get your yoga fix! All information can be found on our Summer School Page.
12th June 2021:
Bedford House are proud to present our Summer School Programme starting on 26th July. We have a range of activities taking place over the summer including:
- Yoga - Pilates - Ballet - Aerobics - Handicraft - Painting in Watercolour - Sculpture in Clay - Line Dancing - Painting Landscapes
For more information, check out the dedicated page on our website here: www.bedfordhouse.org.uk/summer-school-2021.
This is the perfect opportunity to try something new or trial a course before the new academic year starts in September. Please enquire if you would like to try a taster session.
To get involved, please email your enrolment form to enquiries@bedfordhouse.org.uk. If you are not currently a member of Bedford House, you will also need to send in a membership form.
29th May 2021:
We hope you are all enjoying the lovely weather this bank holiday weekend. We would just like to remind everyone, half term is next week (31st May - 4th June) but there are some exceptions.
Classes continuing through half term are as follows:
Keep Fit for Women 60+
Ballet A + B
Line Dancing
Pilates
All classroom based classes, like our art courses & art appreciation, and all yoga classes will NOT be on during half term.
Aerobics and Vinyasa Yoga are not on due to falling on the bank holiday Monday.