Month: April 2025

Proposals Outlining Plans for Surrey

On Tuesday 29th April 2025, district and borough councils have published proposals for local government reorganisation on their websites, to be debated at Council meetings across Surrey in the coming days. Final proposals will be submitted to the Government by 9th May 2025.

Eight of the eleven district and borough councils are proposing a three unitary council model for Surrey. They believe that this is the best way to preserve local democracy and accountability, and would ensure that new councils align with Surrey’s existing economic and community identities – creating the foundation for more responsive governance and stronger local economies. There is also a proposal for two unitary councils being submitted by Surrey County Council. Those councils that have been undecided so far will make a final decision between the 6 and 8 May.

The new structure for local government will replace the current two-tier system of district, borough and county councils.

surreyCouncillor Hannah Dalton, Chair of the Surrey Leaders Group and Chair of the Epsom & Ewell Borough Council Residents’ Association (Majority Group) said:

“This is a significant achievement and the culmination of much collaboration and hard work by council leaders and officers across the county.

“There are still issues to be resolved, including how debt will be managed. Over the coming weeks and months, we will continue to work at pace towards a vision for the county that delivers for our residents and communities, that enables us to unlock the wider benefits that devolution can ultimately bring.

“I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who took part in the recent resident engagement which sought opinion on shaping Surrey’s future, the results of which indicated clear public support for a three unitary model of local government.

“We also appreciate the time given to us by representatives from charities, parish and town councils, residents forums, health services, community groups and others across the county in our stakeholder engagement exercise and roundtable group sessions. It was really important to make sure as many voices as possible were heard in this journey about the risks and opportunities of changes that will impact local services and communities.”

Government is expected to decide on proposals by the end of the year. If approved, legislation will be passed to allow the changes, and elections for new shadow unitary councils will be held in May 2026, with a view to the new unitaries going live in May 2027.

Proposals are published on council websites:

PAW Patrol-Themed Land Opening Spring 2026

Leading UK family theme park, Chessington World of Adventures, has announced a major new partnership with Paramount Location-Based Experiences and global preschool powerhouse, PAW Patrol, produced by Spin Master Entertainment.

The London attraction will launch a themed, immersive land comprising four thrilling rides -including an entry-level ‘my first rollercoaster’ – play areas, and interactive character ‘meet and greet’ events. Guests will also enjoy a dedicated food and beverage outlet and picnic space, plus a customised retail store.

The new must-visit destination for preschoolers and their families, targeting children aged two to five years old, will be the UK’s first and only PAW Patrol-themed land. Representing a multi-million pound investment, with a 1.4 acre footprint, the new land will also be Chessington’s largest preschooler attraction.

PAW Patrol, the top-rated preschool series in the UK and globally, follows the adventures of a tech-savvy boy named Ryder and his team of heroic rescue pups who are ready to save the day. Whenever there’s trouble, pups Chase, Marshall, Rubble, Skye, Rocky, Zuma, Everest and Tracker are ready for action, no matter what comes their way. With a mission to work together to keep Adventure Bay safe, no job is too big, and no pup is too small. Since launching on Nickelodeon in 2013, the franchise has expanded with consumer products, two feature films with a third coming up in 2026, and live events including PAW PatrolTM Live! in the UK this summer. PAW Patrol is produced by Spin Master Entertainment and airs on Nickelodeon, Channel 5’s Milkshake! and Paramount+ in the UK.

PAW Patrol-themed land opening in 2026
The new attraction will see PAW Patrol’s Adventure Bay setting represented in vibrant landscape theming with the land’s storytelling drawing on the role of the pups in the community, demonstrating purpose and everyday heroism. PAW Patrol’s values of teamwork and friendship resonate with parents and children and support families on their preschooler journey. These themes will come to life in the immersive experience at Chessington, with messaging around emotional and social engagement integrated into the fun. This aligns with Chessington’s core purpose for its guests – driving valuable connection between parents and children while they enjoy family-friendly thrills.

A PAWsome 2025 at Chessington
Children don’t need to wait until 2026 to meet their favourite pups. Families can begin to immerse themselves in PAW Patrol at Chessington from spring 2025. Pups Chase, Skye and Rubble will be on site helping to oversee the construction of the new land, giving guests the opportunity to interact with their favourite characters in a brand-new PAW Patrol Meet and Greet experience opening for May half term, from 24th May.

From this summer, PAW Patrol fans can enjoy a ‘pawfect’ short break when Chessington’s Safari Hotel opens an exclusive collection of five themed rooms – the first and only PAW Patrol accommodation in the UK. And in September, Marshall will join his pup pals to launch PAW Patrol Autumn Adventure* – an action-packed day of fun including a pup-tastic park trail, the opportunity to meet the heroic pups, and access to 20 magical preschool rides and attractions.

PAW Patrol themed land opening Spring 2026

Howard Ebison, Divisional Director of Chessington World of Adventures, said:

“Our purpose at Chessington is to be the UK’s greatest place for young families to create lifelong memories​. As one of the world’s leading pre-school brands – delighting children across the globe with the stories of Adventure Bay – the power and appeal of PAW Patrol is unparalleled. It’s a great privilege to join forces with Paramount to create this immersive land – the UK’s first and only PAW Patrol themed land – to provide magic and excitement for our young guests. We can’t wait to welcome the pups to Chessington World of Adventures. As the pups would say, Chessington is ready for action!”

Marie Marks, SVP, Global Experiences at Paramount, said:

“We are so excited to see the iconic PAW Patrol brand come to life at Chessington World of Adventure, and incredibly pleased to be partnering with Merlin Entertainments to bring these beloved pups to their first fully themed land in the UK. Chessington World of Adventures and Nickelodeon have a deep commitment to creating entertainment that families can enjoy together, and we are delighted that this new themed land will immerse young visitors in their very own PAW Patrol adventure.”

Visit www.chessington.com/paw-patrol

*PAW Patrol Autumn Adventure runs from 3rd to 26th September mid-week during term time. Day tickets start from £29 per person.

Bishop of Guildford to join thrill seekers in Leap of Faith

Bishop of Guildford to join thrill seekers in a Leap of Faith to raise funds for Guildford Cathedral’s vital work

Guildford Cathedral is calling on adventurers to take part in its thrilling Daring Descent on Saturday 14 June 2025, an exciting fundraising event aimed at supporting the Cathedral’s vital upkeep and work.

Participants will climb the Cathedral’s spiral staircase, consisting of 249 steps, to a height of 160 feet, roughly the height of ten double-decker buses, where they will enjoy stunning panoramic views of Guildford before experiencing the thrill of abseiling back to the ground.

This unique event will feature 20 brave individuals, including Right Reverend Andrew Watson, the Bishop of Guildford, who will be raising funds for both Guildford Cathedral and the Bishop’s Communities Fund. The remaining participants will focus their fundraising efforts on the essential £3,500 it costs every day to keep the Cathedral’s doors open, supporting its operations, services, and community outreach.

“We are incredibly grateful to all who are participating in the Daring Descent to raise funds for the ongoing maintenance and mission of Guildford Cathedral,” said Nicola Pratt, Head of Development at Guildford Cathedral. “It costs £3,500 every day to keep our doors open, and these funds will ensure we can continue to serve our community, preserve our historic building, and offer a beautiful space of welcome, worship and culture.”

The Bishop of Guildford’s Communities Fund, for which Bishop Andrew is also raising money, gives grants to a variety of local which provide much needed support and outreach to some of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable people in our Diocese.

While 20 participants have already signed up, including Cathedral Staff and their families, Choristers, Congregation members and Diocese of Guildford Staff, Guildford Cathedral is encouraging even more thrill-seekers to join in and help raise much-needed funds for this beloved local landmark. Experience is not essential as instructions and full safety equipment will be provided by experts.

Get your camera at the ready as this experience will be worthy of posting on your social media! This is an experience to tick off the bucket list, all whilst raising vital funds for a good cause.

Whether a seasoned abseiler or a first timer, the Daring Descent promises an unforgettable experience for those taking part.

To sign up for the event or for more information, please contact Nicola Pratt, Head of Development at Guildford Cathedral on 01483 547884 [email protected]

For more information about our exhibitions, tours, and events, visit www.guildford-cathedral.org.

Guildford Cathedral is the newest Church of England Cathedral consecrated on a new site and the only Cathedral dedicated to the Holy Spirit. Known for its stunning architecture and vibrant community, it serves as a spiritual home and cultural landmark in Surrey.

When WWII halted the building process, leaving the Cathedral partially completed, fears arose that it might never be finished, and there were even talks of demolishing what had been built. In an incredible display of support, thousands of individual bricks were purchased by members of the public and community groups. Even Queen Elizabeth II participated, buying and signing a brick. These contributions marked the beginning of the journey of the “People’s Cathedral.

Today, Guildford Cathedral stands strong on Stag Hill, an instantly recognisable symbol of Guildford visible for miles around—a beacon of hope and a sign of homecoming. Inside, the Cathedral’s natural light highlights its open space, creating an atmosphere of stillness and peace. It serves not only as a place of worship but also as a vibrant venue for community events.

This remarkable building is a testament to what can be achieved when people pull together. From the passion and dedication that made its construction possible in the 20th century to the present day, Guildford Cathedral remains “Open to God, Open to All.”

 

Happy Birthday Vampire Ride at CWOA

UN-BITE-LIEVABLE! VAMPIRE ROLLER COASTER AT CHESSINGTON WORLD OF ADVENTURES CELEBRATES 35 YEARS.

Chessington World of Adventures is celebrating 35 thrilling years of its legendary Vampire roller coaster by giving away a fang-tastic 100 fast tracks!

Fast track passes – worth £60 per person – will be awarded to the best-dressed little vampires and their families visiting on Friday 11th April

Chessington World of Adventures’ iconic ride, Vampire, is marking an incredible 35 years next Friday 11th April.

As Europe’s first ever suspended roller coaster, which first took flight in 1990, the London theme park’s Vampire roller coaster has thrilled millions, and cape-tivated visitors with daring drops, swooping turns and eerie theming throughout.

To commemorate this mystical milestone for one of the nation’s favourite rides, the attraction is hosting a special weekend of celebrations, including giving away 100 free fast track tickets worth £60 per person.

Kids aged 6 to 15 are invited to come to the park dressed to thrill, donning their finest vampire attire*, to be in with the chance to win ‘Ultimate 8’ fast track access to Chessington’s top rides, including Croc Drop, Mandrill Mayhem and the iconic Vampire.

Howard Ebison, Divisional Director at Chessington World of Adventures said: “Vampire is one of those rollercoasters that everyone knows and loves. It’s one of our most popular coasters, and what makes it so special is the nostalgia it brings. Every day we have visiting parents (and even grandparents!) reminisce about riding it when they were young. And now they have the opportunity to take their kids on one of their childhood favourite rides. This big birthday weekend is a fantastic opportunity for families to create more unforgettable memories, and we can’t wait to see our park filled with the excitement and creativity of our youngest guests.”

“This special offer serves as a thank you for three and a half decades of support, ultimately making Vampire a cherished part of our attraction history.”

Over the Vampire birthday weekend (11th-13th April), Chessington World of Adventures will be in spooky festive mode. Wild Woods will be transformed into a gothic garden party and Violet, Chessington’s much-loved vampire bat character, will be making a special appearance to meet with children every morning.

John Wardley – one of the world’s leading rollercoaster creators – is the mastermind who designed the iconic Vampire coaster for Chessington back in 1990. On the milestone birthday, John commented: “It is incredible to see the lasting impact Vampire has had over the past 35 years. From initially writing to Chessington Zoo’s director with the idea to transform the attraction into a theme park, to being the first to ride the Vampire track, the process and making-of Vampire has been a thrilling adventure in itself.

“I have always been fascinated with illusions and special effects, and this was something I really wanted to bring to life with Vampire – giving riders the opportunity to be fully immersed in the adventure. It was this inspiration that ultimately led to the revolutionary suspended track – with Vampire being the first roller coaster of its kind in the UK. It’s inspired coasters globally since.

“It brings me immense joy to know Vampire continues to delight and inspire new generations.”

Vampire hangs at 70 feet, soaring through the skies, swooping over the rooftops of Wild Woods and flying through the treetops with speeds of 45 miles per hour. The ride’s height restriction starts at 1.1metre.

For those with an undying love for Vampire, looking to ride it for the first time, or simply joining the celebrations at Chessington, head over to chessington.com/Vampire-35th-birthday for details of the fast track giveaway and what’s on over the birthday weekend.

*To qualify for the offer the child must be dressed in a recognisable Vampire costume – this will be assessed at the discretion of the Chessington ticket office team

HOW TO ENTER:

  • Come to the Safari Hotel at Chessington World of Adventures at 10.15 on Friday 11th April to take part in the contest (Chessington’s Admissions team will direct you from the entrance gates)
  • Entrants should be dressed in a recognisable vampire costume
    The competition is open to children aged 6 – 15 years old, accompanied by an adult
  • Please note participants must have a pre-booked Chessington ticket
  • Each winner will receive four Ultimate 8 Reserve and Ride passes for themselves and three additional people. Up to three children can be part of each group of four. Each group must include at least one adult over 18 years old. Free passes are limited to a total of 100 fast tracks

    See full terms & conditions at chessington.com/Vampire-35th-birthday

News Community Sports Centre at Reigate Grammar School

We are thrilled to share an exciting new project that will enhance student life and shape the future of sport and activity at Reigate Grammar School for generations to come. After receiving planning approval, we are moving forward with the design and build of a new, state-of-the-art sport and activity centre – The Andy Paul Sport and Activity Centre.

This incredible community facility, set to open in September 2027, is made possible thanks to a generous donation from former pupil Andy Paul, alongside financial resources we can now rely on from our RGS International partnerships. This generosity and commitment to RGS has enabled us to move forward with our plans to ensure that sport, fitness, and wellbeing remain at the heart of school life.

A Vision for the Future of Sport at RGS

The Andy Paul Sport and Activity Centre will provide outstanding new facilities. The centre will include:

A multi-sport competition-standard Sports Hall for netball, indoor hockey, cricket, badminton, and more.

A fully equipped fitness and conditioning suite supporting student active wellbeing and performance sport.

A dance / multipurpose studio .

Outdoor Multi-Use Games Areas (MUGAs) providing all-weather spaces for both sport and an enhanced play space for all.

With the construction beginning in April 2026, this project builds on the success of the Harrison Centre and reflects our ongoing commitment to enhancing RGS facilities for future generations.

Why This Matters for Our Students and the Future of RGS

Through sport and physical activity at RGS, we develop character, instil a lifelong love of movement, and provide pathways for excellence, ensuring that every student finds their place within our sporting community. As part of our 350th year commitment to the future, The Andy Paul Sport and Activity Centre is a legacy project, securing the long-term success and stability of RGS. It will keep us at the forefront of independent education, attract the best students and staff, and continue to ensure that an RGS education is one of excellence, ambition, and opportunity.

“My time at RGS helped me become who I am today. I want to give back and ensure future generations have the very best facilities to thrive, just as I did.” Andy Paul.

We are incredibly grateful to Andy Paul and our International Partnerships for making this possible and look forward to celebrating this next chapter in RGS history with you all.

What Happens Next?

-April 2026 Construction begins

-September 2027 Opening of The Andy Paul Sport and Activity Centre

Follow our journey - we will share updates and progress on our website and social media channels as we bring this vision to life.

Follow RGS Sport @reigategrammarsport to see how we are leading the way in school sport at RGS.

Nescot graduate on road to WorldSkills Shanghai

Melissa Barretto, a skilled Professional Cookery Diploma graduate from North East Surrey College of Technology (Nescot), is setting out on a journey of a lifetime, in an intrepid bid to do the UK proud on the international stage at the next WorldSkills Competition.  Known as the ‘skills olympics’, it will be held in Shanghai from 22-27 September 2026.

Following Melissa’s success in its national Culinary Arts skills competitions, WorldSkills UK, in partnership with Pearson, the world’s lifelong learning company has announced that Melisa will join its 18-month intensive training programme. Melissa will be aiming to be selected for the team that will represent the UK at WorldSkills Shanghai.

It is the first time China has hosted the prestigious WorldSkills competition. The event will see 1500 young people travel to Shanghai from over 80 counties to compete in technical skill disciplines from engineering, manufacturing and technology through to creative, digital and hospitality in front of an audience of 250,000.

The WorldSkills competition is considered by global experts as the ultimate test of a nation’s ability to meet future skills needs. It is attended by government representatives, educationalists and leading employers from across the globe.

WorldSkills UK uses its participation in the international WorldSkills competition to promote skills excellence across the UK, and by working with education, industry and UK governments it is embedding world class training standards throughout the skills sector.  This is helping to meet the demand for a highly skilled workforce in crucial sectors including engineering, digital, manufacturing and construction.

The UK will be competing in over 30 skills at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, including 3D Digital Game Art, Robot Systems Integration and Renewable Energy.

Ben Blackledge, Chief Executive, WorldSkills UK said: “Congratulations to Melissa on being selected for our training programme for WorldSkills Shanghai 2026. Together with the other members on our programme, Melissa will be developing the right skills to fuel business growth across our economy. With WorldSkills being hosted in Shanghai next year, it provides a fantastic platform for us to work closely with China, where we know skills excellence is a priority, to collaborate, innovate and learn from the very best in the world.”

Freya Thomas Monk, Managing Director of Pearson Qualifications said: “Pearson is proud to sponsor Team UK! Boosting the profile and prestige of technical and vocational education is incredibly important to us and I wish this talented group of 86 young people from across the country the best of luck as they begin their training programme towards competing in Shanghai.”

Melissa Barretto won the Silver Medal in the Culinary Arts category at WorldSkills UK in November. She was part of the first cohort of students on the Level 3 Advanced Professional Cookery Diploma course at Nescot, and the first year that the Catering and Hospitality department had entered the competition. She competed in the WorldSkills National finals along with fellow student, Iustin, a worthy finalist.

 

Karin Freestone, Catering and Hospitality Chef Lecturer at Nescot said: “Congratulations and well done to Melissa on this incredible achievement. We are immensely proud of Melissa and so thrilled that she has been selected for this prestigious training programme. Her skills and talent are exceptional and evident throughout her time at Nescot. It’s been an honour and privilege to mentor her and we wish Melissa the very best on her journey.”

 

NESCOTJulie Kapsalis, Principal and CEO at Nescot said: “We were thrilled when two of our Professional Cookery students competed in the finals with Melissa wining Silver. A remarkable achievement for our Catering and Hospitality department in their first year of entering the competition and a testament to the team’s exceptional training, guidance and support for all our learners. We are so proud and delighted for Melissa and we look forward to following her exciting training journey for WorldSkills Shanghai. Good luck and all the very best to her.”

Students from Nescot have participated in the finals of WorldSkills UK for the third year running, with Nescot’s Creative Media students wining Gold in 2023 and Bronze in 2022.

Pearson is the official partner of Team UK for WorldSkills Shanghai, following a successful partnership at WorldSkills Lyon in 2024.

For information on Squad UK for WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 visit the WorldSkills UK website here.

For information on Nescot’s Catering and Hospitality courses visit our website here.