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The primary schools will be hosting their annual Athletics Day at Francis Plain on Wednesday 23 April 2025. All parents, guardians and members of the public are invited to attend. The sports will start at 09:45 and end at approximately 14:30.
As this is a school event, the primary sector would appreciate if all spectators could adhere to the following conditions in the interests of the safety of the children:
- No pets will be allowed on Francis Plain for this event.
- Only the appointed marshals, helpers, invited guests and school team leaders will be allowed on the field for the duration of the event.
- Only school appointed photographers will be allowed on the field to photograph the event.
- No alcohol is allowed.
- Smoking is restricted on the whole of Francis Plain for this event. Persons wishing to smoke must do so outside of the Francis Plain and school premises. The allocated smoking area is away from the school along Watercourse Road.
- All litter is to be put into the bins provided.
Parking in the area behind the pavilion and adjacent green shed or alongside of these areas is not permitted as this is the muster point for Prince Andrew School staff and students in the case of a fire or other emergency. However, the ring road will be open for parking.
Please note, if parents/guardians wish to transport their children home after the event they are asked to ensure that they make the respective head teacher of the school or the child’s class teacher aware of this on the day so that all children can be accounted for.
We look forward to your support in making this a successful day for our children.
St Helena’s primary schools have a longstanding history of involvement in the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition (QCEC), established in 1883. This tradition expanded two years ago to include writers from Prince Andrew School.
Annually engaging thousands, the competition celebrates student achievement, empowers youth voices, and builds creative writing skills. Each year, a Commonwealth-focused theme promotes empathy and diverse perspectives on global challenges.
In 2024, the theme of the competition was ‘Our Common Wealth’, asking entrants to consider how they deal with adversity, and how community and culture can be used to encourage resilience and hope in a world with a growing number of global issues.
The topics for the junior category were:
- Describe a new eco-friendly habit you could adopt to contribute positively to a greener Commonwealth.
- Imagine a dialogue between yourself and a grandparent, discussing themes of resilience and hope, and elucidate on the insights each generation can offer the other.
- Envision participating in a beach clean-up where you unexpectedly discover the ability to communicate with sea creatures. Depict the conversation and your response.
- Illustrate how you would navigate making friends with peers during a school exchange program in a Commonwealth country different from your own, considering cultural similarities and differences.
The topics for the senior category were:
- “In the words of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, ‘It’s worth remembering that it is often the small steps, not the giant leaps, that bring about the most lasting change.’ What practical measures can you initiate to address the climate crisis?”
- Craft a persuasive speech outlining today’s most pressing global challenge and propose how Commonwealth values can be instrumental in its resolution.
- Reflecting on the essence of ‘aiga’ or family values in Samoan culture, explore how similar core values from your heritage can foster cooperation and community within the Commonwealth.
- Compose a letter addressed to your country’s leader, advising on strategies to realize the goals of peace, liberty, and progress as envisioned in the Commonwealth’s London Declaration.
An awards ceremony was held at Plantation House on Tuesday 15 April, presented by HE Acting Governor, Tasha Harris, and Head Teacher of Harford Primary, Carlean Crowie. 19 students were awarded bronze medals, 20 were awarded silver medals and five were awarded gold medals at the ceremony.
Head Teacher of Harford Primary, Carlean Crowie, commented:
“This year, we celebrated a record-breaking 44 winners – a clear reflection of the remarkable growth and development in pupils’ writing across our schools. I hope this success inspires even more pupils to embrace the challenge of the 2025 competition with renewed enthusiasm and determination.”
Photos
Head Teacher, Carlean Crowie delivering the opening speech
HE Acting Governor, Tasha Harris, delivering congratulatory remarks
Recipients of the Bronze Award
Recipients of the Silver Award
Recipients of the Gold Award
Interim Portfolio Director, Marie Horton, delivered closing remarks
#StHelena #QueenCommonwealthEssay #QCEC2024
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A meeting of the Police and Crime Panel will take place on Wednesday 30 April 2025 from 14:30 to 16:00. This meeting will be held at the Education Learning Centre, Jamestown.
The agenda will include a Police and Crime Panel report from the Chief of Police and a question and answer (QA) section from the panel. A report summary will be made available to the public the day before the meeting via the SHG website at www.sainthelena.gov.sh/portfolios/safety-security-and-home-affairs/police-service/.
The panel consists of the following members:
- Governor Nigel Phillips CBE (Chairperson)
- Administrator of Ascension Island, Simon Minshull
- Minister for Safety, Security and Home Affairs (SSHA), Jeffrey Ellick
- Elected Member of the St Helena Legislative Council, Gillian Brooks
- Portfolio Director for SSHA, Alex Mitham
- Crown Prosecutor, Simon Dykes
- Chief Executive Officer for the Equality and Human Rights Commission, Catherine Turner
We welcome attendance and input from all community members and stakeholders as these reforms progress.
For more information, please contact Chief of Police, David Price, by telephone on (00290) 22626 or by email through david.price@sainthelena.gov.sh. You can also view the Police and Crime Plan online at www.sainthelena.gov.sh/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/St-Helena-Police-Service-Police-and-Crime-Plan-v1.1.
A recording of the meeting will be uploaded on the SHG YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@sthelenagovernment1638. The previous panel meetings held in January 2025 and July 2024 and now available to view.
Following each meeting, printed versions of the Police and Crime Panel report will also be made available at the Customer Service Centre and Public Library. Previous reports are now available to view at these locations.
#StHelena #RSHP #PoliceandCrimePanel
The FCDO have confirmed that, following discussions during the Financial Aid Mission held in January 2025, the UK Government has allocated £35.79m of recurrent funding to the St Helena Government as a contribution to their annual budget for the 25/26 financial year. This represents an increase of just over 5% (see Table 1) from the last financial year.
Table 1
| Financial Year | TOTAL |
| 2023/24 | £33,060,000 (4% increase on previous year) |
| 2024/25 | £34,060,000 (3% increase on previous year) |
| 2025/26 | £35,790,000 (5% increase on previous year) |
In the context of an incredibly difficult fiscal position faced by the UK Government, this is a very strong result for St Helena. This funding is alongside the £6.65m that is being provided as a result of the BIOT migrant agreement. This funding allows the government to pursue its priority objectives and policies, such as the recently announced education review.
This announcement does not relate to other funding streams which include the Economic Development Investment Programme (EDIP), the Cloud Forest and other Programmes. These programmes allow us to implement vital infrastructure projects such as the new build prison, the renewable energy programme and the Rupert’s Port project. They also allow us to continue our work on vital environmental programmes.
Deputy Director of Overseas Territories and Polar Regions Directorate, Adam Pile, said:
“Given the UK’s need to increase funding for defence and security priorities and the challenging fiscal position the UK Government finds itself in, I hope you will agree that this is an incredibly positive outcome, and one which confirms the UK Government’s continued commitment to meeting St Helena’s reasonable assistance needs.”
Chief Minister Julie Thomas commented:
“We are grateful to the UK Government for delivering an increase of 5% on our annual financial settlement, particularly set against the challenging global and UK context. Special thanks are extended to Minister Doughty for his ongoing support to the British Overseas Territories, especially noting St Helena being an aid dependent territory. To receive such an outcome during unprecedented times is a clear demonstration of the strength of partnership between SHG and the FCDO. It also cements the need for us to continue to strive to work closely together to achieve the best outcome for St Helena.”
“Despite this positive outcome, as a government we will still need to continue to take hard and difficult decisions, which I appreciate will not be well-received. However due to our financial position we will simply not be able to address all of my government’s policy priorities and will have to focus on fulfilling our essential needs.”
#StHelena #FCDO #FinancialAidMission
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Police Constable Jordana Peters of the Royal St Helena Police Service has been awarded the prestigious International ‘Women in Policing Network’ Leader of the Future award, recognising her notable dedication, community involvement, and promising leadership potential.
The award was presented to Constable Peters by Acting Chief of Police, Peter Lansdown, at a ceremony held in HE the Governor’s Office on Thursday 10 April 2025. This event was conducted virtually, allowing for the participation of other British Overseas Territories award recipients and representatives.
Constable Peters, who joined the St Helena Police Service immediately after graduating high school at 18 years, has demonstrated remarkable professionalism in serving her close-knit community. In a setting where community familiarity is high, she has consistently proven her ability to maintain a balanced approach to policing, handling both reactive and proactive duties with integrity.
Further demonstrating her commitment to personal and professional growth, Jordana is currently pursuing her Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award. Her skills in shooting and archery, developed through this programme, present potential for future application within her policing career.
Constable Peters has expressed aspirations to serve as Chief of Police and is a strong advocate for the Women in Policing network. Her demonstrated potential and dedication highlight her as a promising individual for St Helena. The Royal St Helena Police Service acknowledges her commitment to continued service to the communities of St Helena and Ascension.
Acting Chief of Police, Peter Lansdown commented:
“Jordana’s dedication to both her professional duties and her community is truly inspiring. She embodies the qualities we seek in future leaders, and we are confident she will make a significant impact on St Helena.”
Photo
Awardee Jordana Peters with her parents and members of the Royal St Helena Police
#StHelena #LeaderoftheFutureAward #RoyalStHelenaPolice
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SHG
14 April 2025
In accordance with the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) Migrant Agreement Memorandum of Understanding, HM Customs and Immigration will be undertaking specialised training. A comprehensive six-week training programme, commencing on Monday 28 April 2025, will take place on island and aims to strengthen the capabilities of St Helena’s Customs and Immigration Section.
A team of four specialists from Border Force UK will deliver bespoke training, tailored to St Helena’s specific needs and challenges, to enhance the skills and knowledge of local Customs and Immigration personnel. This intensive programme will provide invaluable expertise and support, aimed at expanding the efficiency and effectiveness of St Helena’s border control operations.
Due to the comprehensive nature of the training, HM Customs and Immigration operating hours will require flexibility during this period. Whilst every effort will be made to minimise disruptions, temporary office closures or reduced services may occur. The Customs and Immigration Section is committed to keeping the public informed of any schedule changes with as much advance notice as possible. However, occasional last-minute closures may be unavoidable.
Head of Customs and Immigration, Owen Birkby commented:
“This training represents a significant opportunity for St Helena. The skills and knowledge gained from this collaboration with Border Force UK will directly contribute to the enhancement of our Customs and Immigration services, ensuring we can continue to effectively manage our borders and serve our community. While there may be short-term discomfort associated with the intensive nature of the training, these efforts will reap long-term benefits for the island’s security and prosperity.”
The Customs and Immigration Section appreciates the public’s understanding and cooperation during this training period. We are committed to providing updates and minimising any inconvenience.
#StHelena #BIOT #CustomsandImmigration #Training
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A reception celebrating St Helena’s Cloud Forest Project (SHCFP) was held at the Speaker’s House State Rooms in the Palace of Westminster, London, on Monday, 07 April 2025. The SHCFP, previously funded by the Conflict, Stability and Security Fund (CSSF)/Integrated Security Fund (ISF) through the CSSF Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change, and ISF Climate Security programmes, has received four years of funding from the UK Government’s Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), with additional support for this and other conservation projects on St Helena provided through Darwin Plus funding from the UK Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
Over 75 guests were in attendance who included, UK Parliamentarians, St Helena Cloud Forest Project partners, people connected with St Helena through charities and other groups, officials from the FCDO and Defra, and St Helenian students currently studying in the UK.
During the event, speeches were made by the Speaker of the House of Commons the Rt Hon. Sir Lindsay Hoyle, St Helena Government’s Environment Minister, Christine Scipio; Sarah Hulton, Interim Director of the FCDO Overseas Territories and Polar Regions Directorate representing Minister Doughty of the UK Government’s FCDO, opposition spokesperson to the Overseas Territories Andrew Rosindell MP, and Katie-Jo Luxton, Executive Director of Global Conservation of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.
These celebrations highlighted the work of the St Helena Cloud Forest Project since 2021, focusing on habitat restoration, climate and water monitoring, innovative research, infrastructure upgrades and capacity-building. This work aims to safeguard our cloud forest’s habitat, crucial for St Helena’s water security, wildlife and people.
During her speech, Sarah Hulton announced the FCDO’s Overseas Territories Climate Security Programme will provide a one-year bridging grant to ensure the continuation of this vital work whilst alternative funding is secured.
Thanks are extended to HMG’s FCDO for their continued support and to Defra for the Darwin Plus initiative, which also plays a vital role in conserving St Helena’s natural heritage.
The event was hosted by Speaker Hoyle and sponsored by Andrew Rosindell MP and Will Stone MP.
For more information on the SHCFP, please visit: https://www.sthelenatourism.com/st-helenas-cloud-forest-project/.
Photo
Sarah Hulton OBE, Kedell Worboys MBE, Will Stone MP, Katie-Jo Luxton, Speaker Lindsay Hoyle, Andrew Rosindell MP
#Sthelena #CloudForest #RestorationProject #FDCO #Defra #DarwinPlus
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Smokefree St Helena, today announced the launch of it’s new, user-friendly online referral system, designed to streamline access to vital smoking cessation support. The new online form simplifies the process for individuals seeking to quit smoking.
Smokefree St Helena provides stop-smoking services, including behavioural support and a recently expanded range of Nicotine Replacement Therapies (NRT). All clients utilising the Smokefree St Helena service will be provided with NRT. Our trained practitioners offer personalised guidance and encouragement to help individuals achieve their goal of becoming smoke-free.
The Smokefree St Helena programme is a six-week initiative, featuring weekly support sessions. During these sessions, clients can discuss their progress, address challenges, and receive ongoing advice and medication management from their practitioner.
To sign up for Smokefree St Helena’s behaviour change support and NRT via the online referral system, please visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SmokeFreeSH or scan the QR code. After completing the form, a practitioner will contact you to schedule an appointment.
QR Code
#StHelena #Smokefree #HealthPromotion
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CHARITY COMMISSIONER
St Helena Government (SHG) is seeking Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the role of Commissioner of the Charity Commission of St Helena.
The Charity Commission operates under the Charities Ordinance 2005, which outlines its key responsibilities. Full details of the legislation can be found here: www.sainthelena.gov.sh/government/legislation/laws-of-st-helena/alphabetical-list-st-helena/.
As a Commissioner, you will play a vital role in:
- Encouraging and facilitating better management of charitable organisations
- Ensuring compliance with legal obligations, investigating mismanagement and misconduct of operations where required.
This is an opportunity to bring fresh energy and reform to the role, helping to revitalise the charity sector and further embed it within the island’s social fabric and future development.
The appointment is for a three-year term. Commissioners receive a remuneration of £35 per meeting, along with a mileage allowance of 77p per mile for personal vehicle use when attending meetings.
The relevant form – “Expression of Interest” – Charity Commissioner can be obtained from Information and Research Support Officer, Linda Benjamin, at The Castle by telephone on 22470, via email at linda.benjamin@sainthelena.gov.sh or on the SHG website at https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/documents/EOI-Form-Charity-Commissioner
Completed forms must be returned to Information and Research Support Officer, Linda Benjamin by Friday, 25 April 2025.
SHG
01 April 2025
During Marine Awareness Week, from the 17th to 21st March 2025, St Helena showcased the critical impacts of climate change on its marine life. As part of this local initiative, which has been running for over 20 years since its inception in 2003, the Marine and Fisheries Conservation Section hosted a talk at the Museum in Jamestown on Tuesday, 18 March 2025. This event was funded by the Blue Belt programme.
Dr. Susana Lincoln, a senior scientist at the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), presented findings from a comprehensive climate study, highlighting the significant impacts of climate change on St Helena’s vital marine ecosystem. This presentation coincided with Marine Awareness Week, aimed at fostering a deeper connection between communities and the ocean, with an emphasis on sustainable practices, conservation efforts, and marine biodiversity.
Dr. Lincoln’s presentation was based on research from four years of study, which culminated in the publication of the “Climate Projections and Future Thermal Suitability Assessment for Priority Marine Species in St Helena (Blue Belt report CR195).” The report, part of a multi-phase study, examines the risks climate change poses to commercially and ecologically important species. The second phase of this work focused on 23 key species identified in collaboration with the Marine and Fisheries Conservation Section. These species include (local names in brackets):
• Humpback whale
• Pantropical spotted dolphin
• Whale shark
• Yellowfin tuna
• Skipjack tuna
• Bigeye tuna
• Wahoo
• Atlantic chub mackerel
• Mackerel scad (Kingston)
• Bigeye scad (Steenbrass)
• Grouper (Jack)
• Island cowfish
• Deepwater bullseye
• Sergeant major (Five finger)
• Spotted moray (Conger)
• St Helena butterflyfish (Cunningfish)
• Island hogfish (Parrotfish)
• St Helena wrasse (Greenfish)
• Strigate parrotfish (Rockfish)
• St Helena sharpnose pufferfish
• St Helena flounder
• Brown spiny lobster (Crayfish)
• Red slipper lobster (Stump)
The findings from this report, which detail how rising sea temperatures may affect the distribution and survival of these species, are crucial for informing climate adaptation and mitigation strategies for the island. The Marine and Fisheries Conservation Section, in collaboration with the Blue Belt programme, continues to work towards safeguarding St Helena’s marine ecosystem.
In addition to the presentations, attendees were provided with Climate Cards to take away, helping to spread the message of climate change awareness. The Marine Awareness Week initiative also reached school children across primary and secondary schools (averaging 508 total students), offering them an opportunity to engage with the topic through educational activities, including a climate change-themed board game that further consolidated their understanding of climate change impacts to marine species around St Helena.
Dr. Lincoln’s presentation will also be shown on the local television channel, allowing a wider audience to access this important information and continue the conversation around protecting St Helena’s marine environment.
The Environment, Natural Resources and Planning portfolio hopes that the findings shared during Marine Awareness Week will continue to drive discussions and influence proactive measures to protect St Helena’s unique marine heritage.
Head of Nature Conservation, Elizabeth Clingham, commented:
“…climate change is no longer a distant concern, it is a reality that is shaping our oceans, coastlines, and communities and understanding these impacts is more important than ever. We might not be able to see the direct effect of climate just yet, here on St Helena… but it will come.”
Photos
Marine Awareness Display
Head of Nature Conservation, Elizabeth Clingham, delivering a welcome speech to the presentation
#StHelena #MarineAwarenessWeek #Cefas