Crime & Safety
Oxford council help open new assisted living housing scheme
Fern Meadows, an extra care housing development in Faringdon, officially opened on Wednesday, April 15.
It is designed for people aged 55 and over who have care needs but want to maintain independence in their own home.
Developed in partnership by Housing 21, South and Vale District Council, and Oxfordshire County Council, the scheme offers 60 self-contained apartments, with 45 available for rent and 15 for shared ownership.
So far, 53 residents have already moved in.
Tim Bearder, Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet member for adult social care, said: “Fern Meadows shows exactly what modern care looks like.
“People deserve independence, dignity and a real sense of community – and this is what extra care housing provides.
“It’s vibrant, social and designed around the person, not the other way around.
“We’re proud to open this new scheme in Faringdon and give local residents more choice in how they live their lives, with support available when they need it.
“This is the Oxfordshire Way in action.”
The Oxfordshire Way is the county council’s commitment for supporting people to live well and independently, close to their communities for as long as possible.
Extra care schemes like Fern Meadows allow residents to live in their own private apartments with the reassurance of flexible, tailored support that can be adjusted as their needs change.
James Williams, a resident at Fern Meadows, said: “Moving into extra care housing has made a huge difference to my life.
“I’ve been able to keep my independence and my own front door, but with the reassurance that support is there whenever I need it.
“It’s taken away a lot of worry – not just for me, but for my family too.
“There’s a real sense of community here already, and it feels good to be somewhere that’s been designed to help people live well for longer.”
The scheme includes a café, hair salon, residents’ lounge, activity room, communal gardens, guest suite, and secure mobility aid storage.
A dedicated on-site housing manager and independent care team, with care staff on-site 24/7.
Darren Herbet, deputy head of Extra Care South at Housing 21, said: “We are delighted that Fern Meadows is the newest addition to our expanding Extra Care portfolio.
“It has been designed to create a vibrant and inclusive environment that offers residents both privacy and independence.
“The scheme will serve as a community hub for Faringdon, offering opportunities for local people to connect, participate and benefit from the services and activities available.”
Families and carers are encouraged to consider Fern Meadows when planning for the future care needs of their loved ones.
Crime & Safety
Award-winning juggler and comedian Jon Udry comin to Banbury
Fresh from a victory at the Brighton Fringe, Jon will present his blend of tricks and comedy at The Mill Arts Centre.
His performance, Jon Udry is Having a Ball, promises a mix of humour and technical juggling skills, ensuring an enjoyable evening for all.
The show will take place on Thursday, April 23, at 7.30pm.
Jon’s unique style and engaging stage presence have earned him international recognition, including the title of British Young Juggler of the Year.
His performances have been seen at various venues worldwide, from festivals to cruise ships.
Tickets for the Banbury performance start at £18.50 and can be purchased directly from the Mill Arts Centre website.
With his playful, offbeat style, Jon’s show is perfect for anyone looking for something different in their evening entertainment.
More details can be found at themillartscentre.co.uk/shows/jon-udry-is-having-a-ball.
Crime & Safety
Didcot school welcomes 160 students ahead of September
Aureus School in Didcot hosted 160 pupils and their families at its annual Post Offers Evening, designed to support the transition to secondary education for students who will start in September.
Headteacher Kirsty Rogers said: “This event is a way to bring together our new families early on.
“It gives us an opportunity to meet everyone who got a place at our school, and our students talk our rising Year 7s through their transition experience.
“This helps our rising Year 7s feel safe and become familiar with their new surroundings.
“It is also an opportunity to see others who are joining the school and for families to talk to each other.”
Families were welcomed with refreshments, followed by a programme that included speeches from current Year 7 students and a performance by the school choir.
Three students spoke about their first year at the school, describing initial nerves and how they settled in.
Mrs Rogers said: “The student speeches were incredible.
“Reuben, Mary and Vardahn spoke honestly of the fears they had when they were in Year 6, and how those fears quickly went away as they made new friends and found their place in the school.”
The event was organised by deputy head pastoral Vicki Knight, with the support of head of Year 7 and transition Callie Fisher, and the student speakers.
Aureus School is part of the GLF School multi-academy trust.
Crime & Safety
Leys College holding an open evening showcasing courses
Taking place at The Leys College, the event will be held on Wednesday, April 29, from 4.30pm to 7pm.
The open evening will showcase the college’s range of study, leisure and professional programmes.
A spokesman for Activate Learning said: “Activate Learning are excited to welcome visitors on-site to showcase their extensive range of study programmes and employment opportunities at The Leys College during the Spring 2026 Open Event on Wednesday 29 April, 4.30-7pm.”
Visitors will have the chance to hear subject presentations, meet current students, and speak with staff about courses and campus life.
Other activities include an introduction to college life led by the Group Director of The Leys College, insights from T Level employers, and information about Access to Higher Education courses.
Attendees can also explore the college’s IT hub and tour facilities for construction, brickwork, carpentry, and motor vehicle programmes.
Staff will be on hand to help visitors plan a personalised learning pathway and discuss application options.
Careers advisers will also be available to offer expert, independent guidance, alongside the Student Services team who can advise on bursaries and financial support.
Attendees will also be able to submit early applications to secure a place for next year.
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