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The Education, Skills and Employment (ESE) Portfolio is offering non-compulsory nursery education for all children between the ages of three and four years.

ESE will be in contact with parents/guardians of those children born on island and who are eligible to enter nursery education in the school year September 2025 – August 2026. This is to offer a place and provide details of school placement and date of admission.

It would be appreciated if parents/guardians of children who were not born on St Helena could submit the following information in writing to the Assistant Director of Schools, Kerry Lawrence, so that an offer of placement can be made:

Once all required information has been received, parents/guardians will be advised of their child’s nursery placement.

It should be noted that ideally a child should attend the school within the catchment area where he/she is residing.  However, for non-compulsory schooling, exceptions will only be made for regular attendance outside the identified catchment area should numbers in the requested school be low enough to accommodate the extra intake or if there is a valid reason for this, such as child care.

Parents/Guardian who wish for their child to attend nursery schooling outside of their catchment area, must apply in writing to the Assistant Director of Schools, stating which school they would like their child to attend and the reason for the placement outside of their catchment area. In such cases, parents are obligated to take responsibility for transporting their child to, and from school if required. 

All correspondence pertaining to this matter can be sent to the Assistant Director of Schools, Kerry Lawrence, at the Education and Learning Centre, Jamestown, by email to: kerry.lawrence@sainthelena.gov.sh.  

SHG

15 May 2025

www.sainthelena.gov.sh

RUPERT’S DEVELOPMENT – LANDSCAPING

St Helena Government would like to invite suitably experienced contractors to submit tenders for the following contract:

CS-1931-SHG – Rupert’s Development – Landscaping

A site visit to view the works will take place at 09:00 on Friday, 23 May 2025, meeting near the Sea Rescue Building, Rupert’s.

Contractors should note that site visits requested after this date, will not be entertained unless there is a relevant reason why the contractor could not attend the scheduled site visit.

Copies of the tender document and further details can be obtained from the Procurement Officer, Tiffany Lawrence, located at the Top Floor, Post Office Building, Jamestown on telephone no: 25932 or via email through  tiffany.lawrence@sainthelena.gov.sh .

Completed tenders should be placed in the Tender Box located on the Top Floor, Post Office Building by 12:00 on Friday, 30 May 2025, clearly marked with the tender number. 

Interested parties should note that this opportunity is not being advertised overseas.

SHG

13 May 2025

SHG is pleased to announce the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride (DGR) scheduled to take place on Sunday, 18 May 2025, and invites local classic and vintage styled motorcycle riders to participate in this significant global event.

Founded in Sydney, Australia, by Mark Hawwa, the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride unites classic and vintage styled motorcycle riders from all over the world to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health. Inspired by a photo of TV Show Mad Men’s Don Draper astride a classic motorcycle and wearing his finest suit, Mark envisioned a themed ride as a unique way of connecting niche motorcycle enthusiasts and communities whilst raising vital funds to support the men in our lives.

Now a celebrated annual occasion, the DGR sees elegantly dressed riders on their distinguished motorcycles take to the streets worldwide, combining their passion for classic motorcycles with a commitment to a crucial cause.

SHG encourages all eligible motorcycle owners on the island, possessing classic or vintage-styled machines, to register their participation online and proudly represent St Helena in this international initiative. Spectators are welcome to join and show their support.

Registration Details:

Interested individuals are requested to register via the official Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride website at: www.gentlemansride.com.The online platform provides comprehensive details regarding the event, registration procedures, and opportunities for fundraising.

Event Details:

Starting point: Plantation House

Start Time: 13:00

Route: Meeting at Plantation House from 13:00 then onto Blue Hill (U-turn at the Sandy Bay viewing point/water tank) next through Sandy Bay, Green Hill (Re-group Point) towards Levelwood Shop (Re-group Point) – Longwood Avenue (Re-group Point) through Alarm Forest, down Constitution through Jamestown, ending at the Sea Front/ Yacht Club.

End Time: Estimated time of arrival is 18:00.

Representative of the organising committee on St Helena, Kyle Bennett, commented:

“Why we ride:

We ride for the friendship and camaraderie, we ride for the freedom, and we ride for our mental wellbeing. We ride for the thrill of the motorcycle and the sound of the engine.

Here on St Helena the motorcycle allows for that few minutes or hours of escape and freedom, times astride motorcycles have calmed anxious thoughts, focused on things we can control, and actually improve our overall health – lowering blood pressure, relaxing heart rate, coordinating mind and body on the action of controlling the machine. A peace behind the handlebars that few other activities afford. Cutting through the wind, carving corners, scenery flashing by as the bike propels us through time and space, the sounds of exhaust and wind roaring outside the helmet, the scent of nature, the powerful machine beneath yet firmly under our control, man and machine in sync with each other.

Thank you for your interest in this year’s event and welcome to the first of its kind for St Helena. A group of us got in touch with The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride to gauge if St Helena could to take part in this global event. This year, St Helena joins approximately 120,000 riders in over 1,000 cities across 110 countries as we ride for a common cause.”

#StHelena #DistinguishedGentlemansRide #MentalHealthAwareness

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Following an announcement in February 2025, St Helena’s only secondary school is delighted to announce its new name:

St Helena Secondary School.

This significant development follows a creative and collaborative project undertaken by the students over the past term. The initiative was designed to celebrate the school’s unique identity, honour its place within the wider community of St Helena, and strengthen its international presence.

Students were invited to submit suggestions for a new school name, and the Student Council meticulously shortlisted the options. This process ensured that the final choices reflected the school’s core values, heritage, and future aspirations. A whole-school vote to decide the final name then empowered every student to participate in shaping the school’s future identity.

The newly approved name, St Helena Secondary School, proudly reflects the school’s deep connection to the island. It reinforces its commitment to serving the local community while also highlighting its ambition to be recognised internationally as a centre of learning, growth, and opportunity.

A soft launch of the new name will commence over the coming months. While elements such as the updated name, crest, and visual identity will be gradually introduced across signage, uniform, stationery, and the school’s digital presence. The full transition to St Helena Secondary School will be completed by September 2026.

Chief Minister, Julie Thomas, commented:

“This achievement depicts yet another step in our journey of reviewing our educational provision.  Implementing standards to improve and strengthen our service offering is key to our children’s success and the success of our island, but it is of equal importance that our children’s views and opinions are taken into account as we make progress.  It is therefore deeply satisfying that a key element of our rebranding initiative has been decided upon by those very people – our students, our children.”

The school extends its sincere gratitude for the ongoing support of the community as it embarks on this exciting new chapter and looks forward to sharing further updates in due course.

#StHelena #Education #SchoolNameChange    

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The St Helena Veterans Association (SHVA) yesterday hosted a series of events to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, honouring the sacrifices and contributions of both international and local heroes to the Allied victory in Europe.

The day began outside The Canister with solemn Readings of the Proclamation by Cllr Robert Midwinter and then by David Harding, recalling the historic announcement that marked the end of World War II in Europe.

Mid-morning, a dignified Main Service took place at the Cenotaph. Led by Bishop Dale, the service offered a moment for reflection and remembrance. Attendees observed a reverent two-minute silence, followed by the laying of wreaths as a mark of respect for those who served and sacrificed. In the evening, the symbolic Ringing of Church Bells echoed the triumphant sounds that swept across Europe on that momentous day in 1945. Adding a visual tribute, High Knoll Fort was illuminated in the UK national colours of red, white, and blue, serving as a beacon of remembrance visible across the island.

The SHG UK Representative’s Office attended the service at Westminster Abbey and a concert held at Horse Guards Parade in London.

These events underscore St Helena’s commitment to remembering the profound impact of the Second World War and acknowledging the collective efforts that led to peace. The programme aimed to ensure that both the global significance of VE Day and the unique contributions of St Helenians are appropriately honoured.

Chairman of the SHVA, Joshua Deville, commented:

“Yesterday marked the national and international commemoration of this very important date in our memories and our calendars, the 80th Anniversary of that very important day, when the world was able to come out from the shadow of the horrific experiences of war and look to the future, in commemoration and celebration.”

“It was very heart-warming to see our communities across St Helena, come together to pay their respects and support the marking of various events throughout the day, from the two readings of the Proclamation in the morning, to the Service, two-minute silence and the Wreath Laying and then in the evening with the Ringing of Church Bells.”

“I would like to convey my sincere thanks and appreciation, on behalf of the St Helena Veterans Association, to all who supported us in bringing this event to life.”

Photos

Reading of the Proclamation by Cllr Midwinter

Attendees at the Main Service

The ‘Reveille’ being played on the bugle. 

Wreaths laid on the Cenotaph

The St Helena Veterans Association, with newly appointed Chairman, Joshua Deville (5th from the right)

High Knoll Fort lit up

#StHelena #80thVEDay #VeteransAssociation

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As previously announced, and as a result of the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) Migrant Agreement Memorandum of Understanding, HM Customs and Immigration are undertaking specialised training over the next six weeks. Due to the varied scheduling requirements of this essential training, a weekly opening hours schedule will be in effect and will be published accordingly.

The opening hours for week commencing 12 May 2025 are as follows:

Consequently, during this training period, the reception desk will be unattended, staff will have limited access to emails and cashier services will be slower which may result in delays. Please also be aware that the HM Customs and Immigration Offices will be closed daily for a staff lunch break between 13:00 and 13:30.

We appreciate your understanding and patience as we invest in the professional development of our team to fulfil the requirements of this important agreement. The weekly opening hours will be communicated regularly.

 #StHelena #BIOTFund #HMCustoms&Immigration

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The Provisional Register of Electors for 2025 has now been published by Gazette.

You can access the Gazette and the Provisional Register on the SHG website at https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/documents/EX-GAZ-52-Provisional-Register-of-Electors-May-2025 or by contacting any of the Assistant Registration Officers. A list of officers can be found at https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/st-helena/government/public-information/elections/.

Alternatively you will be able to view the register in person at:

The Provisional Register will be used to prepare the final Register of Electors, effective from 01 July 2025, which will determine eligibility to vote, sponsor or support a candidate, or stand in the 2025 General Election. No changes can be made after the final register is published until after the General Election has taken place.

You are encouraged to check the Provisional Register and ensure that your information is accurate. Eligible persons will have until 16:00 on Friday 23 May 2025 to submit applications using Form ‘A’ to amend the provisional register.

To be eligible, you will have St Helenian Status as defined by law (Immigration Ordinance, 2011), are ordinarily resident on St Helena, and aged 17 years or over. Examples of how the Provisional Register can be amended include:

It is your responsibility to check the Provisional Register and make any necessary changes before the deadline.

Forms can be submitted in hard copy or via email to any of the following officers at the Castle:

Alternatively, contact any of the Assistant Registration Officers (who can provide a form and assist in completing it if need be) listed at:
https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/st-helena/government/public-information/elections/

For those who are ordinarily resident but currently off-island, Form ‘B’ is available for making amendments. Both forms can be downloaded from the SHG Elections page via the link above..

Remember: If your name is not on the Register of Electors effective from 1 July 2025, you will not be able to participate in the 2025 General Election.

#StHelena #ProvisionalRegisterOfElectors #RegisterToVote

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As previously announced, and as a result of the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) Migrant Agreement Memorandum of Understanding, HM Customs and Immigration are undertaking specialised training over the next six weeks. Due to the varied scheduling requirements of this essential training, a weekly opening hours schedule will be in effect and will be published accordingly.

The opening hours for week commencing 12 May 2025 are as follows:

Consequently, during this training period, the reception desk will be unattended, staff will have limited access to emails and cashier services will be slower which may result in delays. Please also be aware that the HM Customs and Immigration Offices will be closed daily for a staff lunch break between 13:00 and 13:30.

We appreciate your understanding and patience as we invest in the professional development of our team to fulfil the requirements of this important agreement. The weekly opening hours will be communicated regularly.

 #StHelena #BIOTFund #HMCustoms&Immigration

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The Provisional Register of Electors for 2025 will be published on Friday 9 May 2025.

Following its publication, eligible persons will have until 16:00 on Friday 23 May 2025 to submit applications using Form ‘A’ to amend the provisional register.

If you have St Helenian Status as defined by law (Immigration Ordinance, 2011), are ordinarily resident on St Helena, and aged 17 years or over, examples of how the Provisional Register can be amended include:

Remember it is your responsibility to check the Provisional Register when it is issued and to make an application to amend it if you wish to.  This includes adding your name if it is not already listed.

The final register, dated 1 July 2025, will be the register which will be used for this year’s General Election.  To participate in the democratic process, whether by sponsoring, supporting, standing as a candidate, or voting, your name must be included in this register. No further additions will be permitted after the final register is published.

Completed Forms ‘A’ can be submitted to any of the following officers at the Castle, between 09 and 23 May 2025 in hard copy or via email:

Carol Henry: carol.henry@sainthelena.gov.sh; Anita Legg: anita.legg@sainthelena.gov.sh;

Gillian Francis: gillian.francis@sainthelena.gov.sh; Connie Johnson: connie.johnson@sainthelena.gov.sh or any of the Assistant Registration Officers listed at https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/st-helena/government/public-information/elections/

Persons who are ordinarily resident on the island but who are currently offshore can apply to amend the register by using the prescribed Form ‘B’.

Both Form ‘A’ and Form ‘B’ can be accessed on the SHG website at www.sainthelena.gov.sh/government/public-information/elections/

Remember, if your name is not on the Register of Electors you will not be able to sponsor or support a candidate, nor to stand or vote in the 2025 General Election. 

#StHelena #ProvisionalRegisterOfElectors #RegisterToVote

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As previously announced, and as a result of the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) Migrant Agreement Memorandum of Understanding, HM Customs and Immigration are undertaking specialised training over the next six weeks. Due to the varied scheduling requirements of this essential training, a weekly opening hours schedule will be in effect and will be published accordingly.

The opening hours for the week commencing 05 May 2025 are as follows:

Consequently, during this training period, the reception desk will be unattended, staff will have limited access to emails and cashier services will be slower which may result in delays. Please also be aware that the HM Customs and Immigration Offices will be closed daily for a staff lunch break between 13:00 and 13:30.

HM Customs and Immigration thanks the public for their cooperation during this important training period, which will ultimately enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of HM Customs and Immigration services in line with our obligations under the BIOT Migrant Agreement Memorandum of Understanding.

The weekly opening hours will be communicated regularly.

#StHelena #HMCustomsandImmigration #BIOTAgreement

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