Please be advised that the road closure scheduled for the road going through The Arch leading to the sea front in Jamestown on Wednesday 19 March 2025 has been cancelled.
The cancellation is due to preparations underway for the Careers Fair, scheduled for Thursday 20 March.
We thank the public for their understanding.
The Highways Authority has approved the road going through The Arch leading to the sea front in Jamestown to be closed to all vehicular traffic and pedestrians on Wednesday 19 March from 13:00 to 15:30.
This closure is necessary to continue essential repairs to the arch structure by the Building Works Section. Pedestrian access to the wharf and lower Jamestown will be via the Terrace and Harbour View steps.
Emergency services will have access as needed. The Roads Section apologises for any inconvenience caused and thanks the public for their understanding and co-operation.
Please be advised that the road closure scheduled for the road going through The Arch leading to the sea front in Jamestown on Wednesday 19 March 2025 has been cancelled.
The cancellation is due to preparations underway for the Careers Fair, scheduled for Thursday 20 March.
We thank the public for their understanding.
St Helena Emergency Services has announced the rollout of innovative location technology, what3words. Adding what3words to its toolkit will help pinpoint 999 callers’ exact locations, and ensure resources can be dispatched directly to the scene.
When calling the emergency number (999), one of the first questions you’ll be asked is ‘What is the address of the emergency?’ However, pinpointing your exact location on St Helena can be difficult, especially outside of Jamestown. Whilst we don’t use postcodes in the same way as the UK or elsewhere in the world, relying on landmarks or general area names like ‘near Woody Ridge’ or ‘above Thompson’s Hill’ can be vague. Furthermore, many locations are remote, such as sections of the coastal paths, the Peaks National Park, or isolated bays. Describing your location accurately in these areas can be stressful and challenging, potentially delaying vital assistance from the Emergency Services.
what3words provides a simple solution. The system has divided the world into a grid of 3m x 3m squares, and assigned each square a unique combination of three words: a what3words address. Now every front gate, side door, country house entrance and point along an unmarked path has its own what3words address. For example, ///rooms.nettles.windowsill pinpoints a precise spot on Sandy Bay Beach. A what3words gives callers an easy way to communicate the precise location of where help is needed.
what3words is available in over 60 languages to date, and is free to download for both iOS and Android devices, or use via the online map at what3words.com. The system works offline, making it ideal for use in areas with unreliable data connection, such as beaches, coastal areas and campsites.
Whilst not intended as a replacement for the traditional ‘must-pack’ equipment, what3words has proved to be an invaluable addition to the global emergency response toolkit, helping to save both time and resources. As well as a what3words address, call handlers are trained to gather as much information as possible to identify the location of an incident, including road names, landmarks, and more.
Emergency Operations Manager, Michael Gaga-Hale, commented:
“The location of an emergency is vital when responding to those who need us most. Time is critical in medical emergencies such as a cardiac arrest, where every second counts. Without a formal address system in St Helena, locating people quickly can be challenging, especially in high-pressure situations. As our workforce changes, we are less able to rely on responders’ local knowledge, making accurate location information even more important.”
“‘what3words’ provides a simple and precise way to share your exact location, helping us find you sooner. We urge everyone in the community to download the free app and share it with family, friends, and colleagues. You never know when you might need to call for help.”
“We also understand that some people may find it difficult to read the three words displayed in the app. Because the map is divided into 3m squares, you can select a nearby address that is easiest for you to read to the call handler. If needed, take your time and spell the words out letter by letter. The call handlers will support you through the process to get help to you as quickly as possible.”
Chris Sheldrick, Co-Founder and CEO of what3words commented:
“St Helena is home to some of the world’s most unique and remote landscapes, which can present challenges for incident response. We’re incredibly proud our technology is supporting the island’s emergency services, helping to save time, resources and in some cases, lives. By providing a simple way to communicate precise locations, what3words will help enhance the safety of local residents and visitors exploring the island’s stunning scenery.”
A simple guide on how to download and use what3words can be found at the bottom of this press release. Furthermore, St Helena Emergency Services invites the public to attend the Careers Fair on Thursday 20 March 2025, where the Ambulance Services Stand will provide further information on what3words. The team will be available to assist members of the public in identifying their property’s what3words address and demonstrate the application’s functionality. We encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about this valuable tool.
A guide on how to download and use what3words
#StHelena #EmergencyServices #what3words
It has become necessary to make a further change to the published term times for the current academic year (2024-25) for primary schools only. This change is to facilitate our primary schools to prepare for the forthcoming on-island training from Hampshire Local Authority and to be informed of the decision taken by the Portfolio Advisory Board in regard to the Primary School Reorganisation. This will result in all three primary schools being closed on Tuesday, 18 March 2025. Our secondary school, Prince Andrew School, will open as normal.
On the same day, 18 March 2025, we will host a parents/guardian’s evening at 19:00 in the Main Hall at Prince Andrew School. The primary purpose of this meeting is to inform parents and guardians of the decision taken by the Portfolio Advisory Board in respect of the Primary School Reorganisation and, just as importantly, next steps.
Schools will provide a transport slip with a letter being sent home, however, the respective school secretaries can also be contacted via:
Pilling Primary – chelsea.lawrence@sainthelena.edu.sh or telephone 22540
St Paul’s Primary – nanette.anthony@sainthelena.edu.sh or telephone 24737
Harford Primary – helena.twyning@sainthelena.edu.sh or telephone 24719
New Horizons have kindly offered to open on Tuesday 18 March for all children aged 5 years and above who would wish to attend.
We look forward to your continued support.
The Highways Authority has granted approval for the closure of Napoleon Street on Tuesday, 18 March, and Wednesday, 19 March 2025, from 09:00 to 15:30. This closure is essential to facilitate slurry works, which will improve the surface quality of the road.
Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the duration of the closure. Roadside pavements will remain accessible, and on-site personnel will be readily available to guide pedestrians safely through the work area.
Side Path Road will remain open for vehicular traffic, specifically cars. Vehicles will be diverted via Nosegay Lane or near the Guide Hall at the brow, adhering to the 2-ton weight restriction in place. Trucks and buses will be required to divert at Constitution Road to access Jamestown. We encourage drivers of larger vehicles to plan their routes accordingly to minimise disruption.
The Road Section extends its sincere thanks to all residents and road users for their continued support and cooperation during these necessary works.
St Helena celebrated Commonwealth Day 2025 yesterday with assemblies at Prince Andrew School (PAS) and the three island primary schools, as well as a flag raising ceremony held at Plantation House. This year’s theme, ‘Together We Thrive’, highlights the shared values of Commonwealth nations, as articulated in the Commonwealth Charter. Observed annually on the second Monday of March, Commonwealth Day unites member countries in celebration.
To open the ceremony at Plantation House, the Speaker of the House and St Helena Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Branch President, Cyril Gunnell, delivered a welcoming speech. The speech highlighted the importance of shared values, particularly in building a future for and with young people, referencing the Commonwealth Youth Programme and the re-establishment of St Helena’s Youth Parliament. Speaker Gunnell called for continued support for youth initiatives and suggested incorporating national songs into Legislative Council proceedings.
HE Governor Nigel Phillips CBE read the message from Head of the Commonwealth, His Majesty King Charles III. Chief Minister, Hon Julie Thomas MLC, read a message from the Right Honourable Patricia Scotland KC, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth of Nations, and Zac Bargo, Youth Parliament Chair, read the Commonwealth Affirmation.
Shortly after, Speaker Gunnell raised the Commonwealth Flag as part of the ‘Fly a Flag for the Commonwealth’ initiative. This initiative aims to inspire participants to join with others throughout the Commonwealth, a family of 56 member states, which has a combined population of 2.7 billion, with more than 60% aged 29 or under, representing around a third of the world’s Commonwealth’s population.
Speaker Gunnell, at the raising of the flag, commented:
“As we raise the Commonwealth flag today, let us remind ourselves of the core principles that unite us: respect for diversity, commitment to democracy, and dedication to human rights. These ideals serve as a guiding light, encouraging us to embrace our differences while recognising the common threads that connect us all.”
To commemorate the 76th anniversary of the Commonwealth of Nations and to discuss its past accomplishments and ongoing aspirations, guest speakers Mrs Sheena Benjamin of the St Helena National Trust and Mrs Gerarda Hubbard of St Helena’s Active Participation in Enterprise (SHAPE) were invited to speak at the ceremony.
Councillor Gillian Brooks, Chair of the Commonwealth Day Working Group, concluded the ceremony with thanks to HE the Governor, speakers, attendees, Plantation House staff, and the Working Group, marking the end of the Commonwealth Day 2025 event.
Commonwealth Day assemblies were also held at the island primary schools. They were attended by Elected Members of the Legislative Council who read His Majesty the King’s Commonwealth Day message.
Our St Helena Government UK Representative, Mrs Kedell Worboys, had also been invited to attend several engagements to commemorate Commonwealth Day in the UK.
In the morning, Mrs Worboys attended the Commonwealth 76th Anniversary Flag Raising ceremony in Parliament. Additionally, she laid a wreath on behalf of the Government and people of St Helena at a ceremony at the Commonwealth Memorial Gates commemorating Victory over Japan (VJ) Day and the end of the Second World War. In the afternoon, Mrs Worboys, with UK representatives from The Falkland Islands and Tristan da Cunha, attended the Commonwealth Observance at Westminster Abbey.
Photos
HE Governor Phillips reading the message from Head of the Commonwealth, His Majesty King Charles III
Hon Chief Minister Julie Thomas reading the message from the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth of Nations
Zac Bargo, Youth Parliament Chair, reading the Commonwealth Affirmation
Speaker Cyril Gunnell raising the flag
Guest speaker, Sheena Benjamin, of the St Helena National Trust
Guest speaker, Gerarda Hubbard, of SHAPE
The Commonwealth Day Working Group
UK representatives Richard Hyslop (Falkland Islands), Kedell Worboys (St Helena) and Chris Carnegy (Tristan da Cunha)
#StHelena #CommonwealthDay
Please be advised of upcoming road closures and works scheduled for Wednesday, 12 March 2025.
Nose Gay Lane Closure
Nose Gay Lane will be closed to all vehicular traffic from 09:00 to 15:00 on Wednesday, 12 March. This closure is required for the Road Section to carry out necessary slurry works, which will improve the road’s surface quality. Whilst this work is ongoing, Connect St Helena will be raising a sewage manhole cover near the Standard to ensure proper infrastructure maintenance.
Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the closure. Designated areas will be established, and on-site personnel will be available to guide pedestrians safely.
Napoleon Street Milling Works
Milling works will begin on Napoleon Street at 13:00 on Wednesday, 12 March. To facilitate the safe and efficient completion of these works, we ask that all drivers refrain from parking on the pavement during this time. This will ensure unobstructed access for the required machinery and personnel.
The Road Section extends its sincere thanks for your continued support and cooperation during these necessary works.
Representatives from key agencies including Fire and Rescue Service, Emergency Planning, Immigration, Communications Hub, Royal St Helena Police, St Helena Airport, Governor’s Office, Health and Social Care, Port Control, Environment, Natural Resources and Planning, Education, and Solomon and Company have recently completed a comprehensive Multi-Agency Gold Incident Command (MAGIC) training programme, designed to enhance their ability to effectively manage and respond to major incidents.
The training, offered by the International Police Assistance Service (IPAS) and funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) through the Integrated Security Fund’s (ISF) Justice Programme, focused on developing delegates’ confidence, understanding, and ability to perform the critical role of Gold Commander. Three trainers, Assistant Chief Constable Mark Williams and UK College of Policing Multi-agency Gold Incident Command Course (MAGIC) delivery team, Tony Brown and Graham Ellis delivered the training on-island.
Trainers Tony Brown and Graham Ellis of the MAGIC delivery team commented:
“It was a great privilege to be invited to St Helena to deliver a MAGIC Course, and to meet with the island’s senior politicians and leaders at an Executive Briefing session.”
The four-day course saw 27 strategic leaders from St Helena’s emergency and public services come together to be trained in effective strategic management of Major Incident situations, with a specific focus on close multi-agency working. This is the same course undertaken by all ‘Category 1 Agency’ strategic leaders in the UK.”
“The level of engagement, professionalism and enthusiasm demonstrated by all of the course delegates was something that they should all be extremely proud of, and made delivery of the course and the multi-agency exercise an extremely rewarding experience for everyone involved.”
“The course allowed for in-depth discussions around numerous challenges that may present during real-life emergency situations, and again the level of mature engagement and discussion meant that challenges and solutions were openly discussed with consensus being achieved.”
“The St Helena Government can be proud of the effort and dedication demonstrated by all of the delegates, and assured that the course was able to deliver improvements in the collective engagement of all agencies required to prepare for, respond to and recover from major emergencies.”
The MAGIC training programme aimed to equip participants with the skills necessary to:
Through interactive exercises, scenario-based simulations, and expert instruction, delegates gained valuable insights into the complexities of multi-agency coordination and strategic decision-making in high-pressure situations.
Mark Williams, Head of UK National Police Coordination Centre and National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for Civil Contingencies said:
“This course was a fantastic opportunity to work with the Governor, Ministers, and other public sector leaders in St Helena. Being here in person with colleagues from the College of Policing, allowed me to better understand the unique challenges the island has. My colleagues and I were able to share our collective experience and lessons learned from the response to major incidents in the United Kingdom. I am certain that the delegates got a huge amount of learning from it and it was fantastic to see the enthusiasm, professionalism and commitment every one of them showed over the week.”
Chief Secretary, Susan O’Bey, remarked:
“The MAGIC course is very relevant to St Helena where multi-agency collaboration in a major incident is hugely important, particularly given our geographical isolation. The course is designed to support those who are called on to respond to major incidents and help participants to build confidence, and strengthen individual capacity to carry out strategic command roles.”
“The training, which was delivered over four days, was well received. Representatives attended from all of the emergency services, and other key services, including the Airport and Solomon’s and Co, and all participants found it extremely beneficial. Courses such as these are vital in shaping and delivering our response to emergencies, and the lessons learned from this training will equip senior leaders to better understand each other’s operating environments, and enable them to operate more effectively in situations requiring a multi-agency response.”
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the trainers; Tony, Graham and Mark, for their excellent delivery, as well as the FCDO for funding the course.”
Photos
Graham Ellis delivering the training to the delegates.
SSHA Portfolio Director, Alex Mitham, receives his certificate for completing the MAGIC training.
Delegates from various key agencies on island.
Deputy Emergency Planning Manager, Anel O’Bey, presents the delivery team, Graham Ellis (far left), Tony Brown and Mark Williams with a ‘thank you’ gift.
#StHelena #MAGICTraining #MajorIncidentsResponse
www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/
SHG
07 March 2025
On Friday, 28 February 2025, students, parents, and distinguished guests gathered in the Prince Andrew School (PAS) Hall for the annual Certificate and Awards Ceremony. This special event honoured the hard work and achievements of students.
The ceremony commenced with a warm welcome from His Excellency, Governor Nigel Phillips, who addressed the audience before presenting the certificates.
The first round of awards recognised former Year 10, 11, 12, and 13 students, who received their certificates for a range of qualifications, including the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE), Vocationally Related Qualifications (VRQ) , Advanced Subsidiary (AS-Level), and Advanced Level (A-Level).
Following this, individual awards were presented to students who excelled in various disciplines, celebrating outstanding achievements across multiple areas.
| Award | Awardee |
| Jean Beadon Art Award | Blake O’Connor |
| Governor’s Award for academic excellence and achievement at Key Stage 3 | Nate Joshua and Sadie Herne |
| PTA Student of the Year Award for the top performing student in Year 11 and Year 13 | Blane Bennett and Vivienne Ponsford |
| SURE Award for the top performing male and female in Year 11 | Merstine Chiseya and Blane Bennett |
| Jeanette Williams Mathematics Achievement Award for the highest Mathematics score in Year 11 and Year 13 | Blane Bennett and Jacob Williams |
| English Achievement Award for the highest English score in Year 11 and Year 13 | Erik Robbertse and Vivienne Ponsford |
| Eliza Mary Lloyd Trust Agriculture Award for commitment to agriculture | Callum Mittens |
| Bishop Houghton Award for pastoral care and support of the community | William Scott |
| Joy George Award for outstanding effort, progress and achievement at the end of Key Stage 3 | Leah Oyewo |
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks from Student President, Bobbi Clingham and Vice Student President, Raylisha Piek, with closing remarks delivered by Chief Minister, Julie Thomas.
Head Teacher for PAS, Phil Toal, commented:
“It is an immense privilege to celebrate the achievements of our students at Prince Andrew School’s Annual Certificate & Awards Presentation. Today, we recognise the dedication, resilience, and hard work of our students, as well as the unwavering support of our staff, parents, and the wider school community.
Each award and certificate represents a journey of commitment, perseverance, and ambition. Our students have demonstrated not only academic excellence but also determination in vocational and technical studies, embodying the spirit of lifelong learning and personal growth.
I extend my heartfelt congratulations to every awardee, particularly those who have excelled in their respective fields. Their success is a testament to the quality of education we strive for at Prince Andrew School. I also want to express my gratitude to our dedicated teachers and support staff, who continue to inspire and guide our students toward achieving their goals.
Special thanks to His Excellency, the Governor, our Chief Minister, distinguished guests, parents, and the community for joining us in celebrating these achievements. Your support plays a crucial role in shaping the future of our young people.
As we look ahead, we remain committed to fostering an environment where every student is empowered to reach their full potential. Today’s achievements are just the beginning of many successes to come”
Photos
Year 10 recipients of qualification certificates.
Erik Robbertse receiving the English Achievement Award
Year 11 2023-24 recipients of qualification certificates
Recipients of A-level qualifications
Recipient of the Joy George Award, Leah
Student president Bobbi Clingham vote of thanks
#StHelena #Awards #AltogetherBetterForChildrenAndYoungPeople
www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/
SHG
06 March 2025
Jamestown Run Railing Project Completed And Reopened
The Programme Management Office (PMO) is pleased to announce the successful completion of the railing installation project at the Jamestown Run, located adjacent to the Duke of Edinburgh Playground.
Following an open procurement exercise in November 2024, the St Helena Government (SHG) contracted S. Doy Construction to install an approximately 85-metre railing system. Work commenced on Wednesday, 15 January 2025, and has now been completed.
The Jamestown Run is now fully reopened to the public.
The PMO would like to thank S. Doy Construction for their efficient work and the public for their understanding and patience during the construction period.
This project was funded under the UK-funded Economic Development Investment Programme (EDIP) – Micro Project Budget 2024/25, in partnership with the FCDO.