Bridging The Gap: How Dorset’s Rural Businesses Are Embracing The Tech Revolution

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2 May 2024

In the rolling fields and villages of Dorset, a revolution is unfolding. The county’s rural businesses, once perceived as bastions of traditionalism, are integrating cutting-edge digital technologies. This transformative journey is reshaping their operational landscapes, enabling them to thrive in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

Connecting Through Technology

Dorset’s rural entrepreneurs are transcending traditional barriers through significant investments in digital infrastructure. The adoption of high-speed internet has become foundational, enabling businesses to operate seamlessly and expand their reach beyond local markets.

Secondary, the digital tools in place facilitate collaborations that were previously constrained by geography. Platforms that support video conferencing and project management software allow for real-time interactions with suppliers, partners, and customers worldwide.

Remote Working Innovations

Remote working has surged to the forefront of business strategies within Dorset. By embracing remote access solutions for enterprise, companies ensure that their operations are versatile and resilient. This technology supports a diverse range of functionalities, from accessing business applications on the go to managing entire teams remotely. Services like TSplus offer secure, reliable, and efficient solutions that are tailor-made for the unique needs of rural businesses – you can start your trial with them here.

The shift to remote operations has prompted a re-evaluation of workplace norms, with many businesses finding that productivity can soar outside the conventional office environment. This newfound flexibility helps retain local talent and attract professionals who prefer the quality of life that Dorset offers.

E-Commerce Expansion

The surge in digital platforms has revolutionised retail for Dorset’s businesses. E-commerce allows even the smallest producer to access national and international markets, presenting opportunities that were unimaginable a decade ago. Websites and online marketplaces have become essential for businesses looking to sustain growth and compete with larger enterprises.

In parallel, social media platforms enhance market reach and customer interaction, providing a vital link between local businesses and their communities. These tools enable the promotion of new products, special offers, and behind-the-scenes content that builds brand loyalty and customer engagement.

Agricultural Tech Uptake

Agricultural businesse s in Dorset are increasingly turning to technology to modernise their operations. Precision agriculture, powered by GPS and IoT sensors, allows farmers to maximise yield while minimising environmental impact. These technologies provide real-time data on soil conditions, crop health, and weather patterns, enabling more precise farming practices.

Additionally, automated machinery such as drones for aerial surveys and robotic systems for harvesting has reduced the need for manual labour, increasing efficiency and reducing costs. This technological adoption not only supports sustainable farming practices but also ensures that agriculture in Dorset remains competitive and profitable in a global market.

Tourism and Tech Synergy

Dorset’s tourism industry is tapping into technology to transform visitor experiences. Innovative apps offer virtual tours of remote castles and historical sites, attracting a tech-savvy generation to rural areas. These digital enhancements provide interactive and educational content, adding a rich layer of engagement to the physical exploration of Dorset’s landscapes.

Online booking systems and digital marketing campaigns are essential tools for small tourism operators. They streamline guest management and maximise exposure, which is crucial for small enterprises competing with larger entities. The use of technology ensures that visitors have memorable and seamless experiences, crucial for boosting repeat visits and positive reviews.

Training and Skills Development

As technology becomes central to operations, Dorset businesses are prioritising skill development. Training programs tailored to various digital tools are now common, ensuring that the workforce is adept and able to navigate new systems effectively. This investment in human capital not only enhances efficiency but also fosters innovation from within the organisation.

Local educational institutions and business associations frequently collaborate to offer workshops and seminars. These initiatives aim to bridge any skills gap in the community and prepare residents for the demands of a digitised economy. Empowering individuals with these skills benefits the businesses they work for and bolsters the wider Dorset economy by creating a knowledgeable, versatile workforce.

Sustainable Practices through Tech

Environmental sustainability is a key focus for many Dorset businesses, and technology offers powerful tools to achieve these goals. Energy management systems monitor and control the energy consumption of business operations, significantly reducing carbon footprints.

These technologies are particularly important for businesses in agriculture and manufacturing, where resource management directly impacts profitability. By adopting sustainable technologies, Dorset’s rural businesses contribute to environmental conservation and align with consumer expectations for responsible business practices, enhancing their brand and customer loyalty.

Community and Collaboration

The final piece of Dorset’s technological puzzle lies in fostering a community-centric approach. Digital networks facilitate shared learning and mutual support among businesses, which is particularly vital in remote areas. Online forums, virtual trade groups, and collaborative projects allow businesses to share resources, knowledge, and innovation, reducing costs and sparking new ideas.

This culture of collaboration extends beyond individual businesses, influencing regional planning and development. By working together, Dorset businesses enhance their collective ability to attract investment and support from governmental and private entities, ensuring a thriving, innovative business community.

Final Thoughts

Dorset’s rural businesses are not just adapting to technological changes; they are leading the charge. By embracing the digital revolution, they ensure their competitiveness in the global market, enhance their community, and secure a sustainable future for the next generation. This commitment to innovation and adaptability is a testament to the resilience and forward-thinking nature of Dorset’s rural enterprises.

Simple Ways to Refresh Your Countryside Home

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Editorial team

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1 May 2024

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Nestled amidst the pastoral beauty of the countryside, your home serves as a haven of serenity and warmth. Yet, even the most idyllic rural abode can benefit from thoughtful enhancements to keep it feeling both contemporary and comforting.

Let’s explore a variety of ways to infuse new life into your countryside home, enhancing its charm and functionality with an eye for elegance and simplicity.

1. Enlightening Spaces with Thoughtful Lighting

The right lighting is crucial in transforming the ambience of a room. Integrating various light sources can enhance your spaces’ functionality and allure.

Corston’s wall lights, for example, blend seamlessly into a countryside decor, offering a soft, diffused light that can make any room feel welcoming and refined. Positioning these lights strategically around your home—be it in a cosy reading corner or highlighting a beloved piece of art—adds depth and drama to your interiors.

2. A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

There’s a unique charm in balancing the old with the new. Countryside homes often come with beautiful traditional features such as exposed beams or stone walls.

Pair these rustic elements with modern furniture or contemporary artworks to create a striking contrast that speaks to your living space’s history and modernity. This approach refreshes the setting and makes the home feel current and stylish.

3. Colour and Texture: A Symphony of Serenity

Revitalising your home should take into account the harmonious play of colours and textures. It may be a good idea to opt for a ‘biophilic’ palette that reflects the countryside around you, drawing in muted shades of the outdoors to create a seamless visual flow from nature to living space.

Earthy tones like ochre, moss green, and sky blue can subtly elevate the tranquil feel of your rooms without overwhelming the senses. Textures also add a tactile dimension to the decor; think of rustic wooden accents, soft wool throws, or linen curtains, all contributing to a warm, layered aesthetic that invites relaxation.

4. Windows: The Eyes of Your Home

Windows act as a vital link between your home’s interior and the lush landscapes outside. Enhancing them can significantly alter how light filters and landscapes are viewed from inside. Upgrading to larger window panes or selecting elegantly styled frames can transform your views and flood your rooms with natural light, brightening your everyday living spaces.

5. Crafting Outdoor Living Areas

Bringing the comfort of indoors outside creates a seamless transition into the natural beauty surrounding your home. Simple enhancements like adding plush outdoor seating, chic rugs, or mood-setting lighting can turn a simple patio or garden into a lavish extension of your living area.

On cooler evenings, installing a fire pit or an outdoor heater can provide a warm, inviting space where friends and family can gather, blending functionality with leisure in your outdoor design.

6. Decluttering: The Art of Letting Go

Refreshing your space often involves decluttering, which can be as much a mental cleanse as a physical one. The goal is to foster a minimalist environment where every object is either functional or brings you delight.

This process involves critically assessing each item’s place in your home and opting for smart, stylish storage solutions that help maintain order and clarity. By regularly refining your possessions, you keep your space tidy and ensure it remains a true place of respite and clarity.

7. Revitalise with Soft Furnishings

Refreshing your home with new soft furnishings can transform the atmosphere with minimal effort. As the seasons evolve, replacing heavier textiles with lighter, airier materials can immediately brighten the feel of your space. Airy linens will be perfect for summer, while soft, plush velvets during the winter months will enhance the comfort and appeal of your rooms.

This transition updates the aesthetic and tailors your home to be seasonally inviting, making it a perfect retreat no matter the weather outside.

8. Modernising with Smart Home Technology

Incorporating smart home technology can significantly increase both the functionality and modern appeal of your countryside home. For instance, you might want to install smart thermostats for improved energy efficiency or introduce smart lighting systems that can be adjusted from your phone to create the perfect ambience for any occasion.

These technological upgrades will streamline your daily routines and add a layer of contemporary sophistication to traditional settings, making your home smarter and more adaptable to your lifestyle needs.

9. Refreshing the Exterior Facade

The exterior of your home is just as important as the interior when it comes to renovations. A fresh coat of paint, updated siding, or even just new shutters can drastically improve your home’s curb appeal.

You could even consider updating or adding outdoor lighting to enhance the architectural features of your home at night. These changes can make your home feel more welcoming and add to its overall value, ensuring it looks its best from the outside in.

Refreshing your countryside home is not merely about aesthetic updates; it’s about creating a space that resonates with warmth, comfort, and personal style. With these thoughtful changes, you can ensure that your home looks inviting and feels alive and vibrant, a true reflection of the beauty of countryside living.

Graduate Assistant (Senior School) | Clayesmore School

By

Editorial team

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30 April 2024

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To commence September 2024

An enthusiastic and committed Graduate Assistant is required for our Senior School on a fixed term contract. This exciting opportunity includes a full and active role in the pupils’ games programme, administrative support for our Senior Academic staff, and pastoral care of our boarders.

The successful candidate will play a full and active role in the pupils’ games programme and supporting the Girls’ Games with the provision of training, matches and school events. The successful candidate would have demonstrated proven ability in at least one of the following: Netball, Hockey or Tennis.

The candidate will also provide occasional classroom cover and, where appropriate, may be offered some teaching opportunities. This position would suit a recent graduate looking for experience prior to teacher training or seeking a short-term post prior to embarking on another career path.

This is a live-in position that will involve some evening and weekend work within the boarding house.

For further information and an application form, please go to: https://www.clayesmore.com/work-for-us/

Closing Date: 8:00am on Tuesday, 14 May 2024

Clayesmore is committed to the safeguarding and promotion of children’s and young people’s welfare and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

www.clayesmore.com

Second Chef | Clayesmore School

By

Editorial team

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30 April 2024

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Full-time, all year round commencing 1st July 2024

Clayesmore School is located in the village of Iwerne Minster in the shadow of the Iron Age Fort of Hambledon Hill. The breath-taking scenery isn’t really what makes working at Clayesmore a joy. What really makes the school standout is the warmth of the people and the culture and kindness that underpins everything we do.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Second Chef to join our team of talented and experienced staff. Clayesmore prides itself in providing a comprehensive, in-house fresh food service to its pupils and staff.
The ideal candidate will be experienced and confident in high volume catering and be flexible, and able to work as part of a team.

This is a great opportunity to work in catering with primarily daytime shifts. Benefits include a non-contributory pension scheme, Death in Service benefits, a free meal each day and free membership of the Clayesmore Sports Facilities. 6 weeks holiday per year plus bank holidays.
Accommodation may be available for the successful candidate.

Please feel free to ring the HR department on 01747 813213 if you would like to discuss this role.

Closing date: 8:00am Tuesday, 14 May 2024

Further information can be found on our website: https://www.clayesmore.com/work-for-us/

Applications will be considered as soon as they are received and so the deadline may close earlier if we find the right candidate, therefore early applications are advised.

Clayesmore is committed to the safeguarding and promotion of children’s and young people’s welfare and expects all staff and volunteers to share in this commitment.
www.clayesmore.com

The beautiful bookshop and the RotaKids

By

LauraHitchcock

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27 April 2024

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From neighbours to award-winning booksellers: FOLDE’s founders Amber Harrison and Karen Brazier talk to Terry about their ‘pandemic-induced mid-life crisis’.

FOLDE, in Shaftesbury, has won the British Book Awards Independent Bookshop of the Year competition for the South West, organised by The Bookseller magazine and judged by a prestigious panel of industry specialists, authors and journalists.

It’s a remarkable achievement for a business started during the pandemic by two women who had never sold books. They’re justifiably proud and deeply happy with their ‘small but mighty, and slightly fighty’ bookshop.

From bingo halls to community calls – Shaftesbury’s Rotakids are a new generation of community champions, leading the charge in innovative community charity work.
Peter Sale is president of Shaftesbury Rotary Club, and he chats to Jenny about the work of the group, and the benefits not just to the local community but to the kids themselves.

The barriers are gone – for £1.3m … Dorset residents had almost forgotten what Sturminster bridge looked like – but finally the bank stabilisation work is complete.

April’s BV is OUT NOW … grab a coffee and jump in to the Dorset-ness. News, opinion, people, wildlife, art, farming, what’s on, SO many horses … and frankly stunning photography. Did I mention it’s FREE?

Why *wouldn’t* you want a flick through?

(*don’t forget, we’re proud to be purely digital. The only way to read us is right here online!)

You can click here https://bvmag.co.uk/Apr24 to dive straight in. Frankly, it’s so jam-packed with Dorset goodness, it’d be rude not to.

The BV is the ‘glossy’ rural monthly digital magazine from Dorset, shortlisted in the 2024 Newspaper & Magazine Awards for ‘Best Regional Publication in the UK’.

Crowds flock to the first Dorset Spring Show

By

LauraHitchcock

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27 April 2024

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Despite a typically 2024 grey and chilly spring morning, Dorset clearly decided today was finally a day for fun. Kingston Maurward was busy early as the crowds swiftly gathered to enjoy the county’s first rural show of the year – by lunchtime the main car parks for the very first Dorset Spring Show were full, the overflow car parks were … overflowing, and traffic was backed up on the approach roads to the show.

Heading up the team behind the county’s newest event is Dorset County Show Organiser James Cox, who was thrilled with the turnout: ‘With a brand new show there’s always an element of risk, and of course the weather has not been kind so far this year. But we were confident the show would be great – and the whole team is pleased and grateful so many members of the public agreed! It’s been a fantastic first day.’

The show was spread around the grounds of Kingston Maurward House, a combination of craft and trade tents, big ring entertainment, and have-a-go fun. James says: ‘It’s ended up being a brilliant spring get-together for the county. Whether you want to indulge in delicious Dorset foods, purchase local artisan goods, enjoy watching extreme sport, meet a lamb or watch local craftspeople, Dorset Spring Show has it!’

Maisie wasn’t the only one excited to be in the Food tent. But sadly, despite her careful observation, not one single cheese jumped off the table

Show visitors can have a go with Great Pottery Throw Down finalist (and Weymouth resident) Dan Sandham, who is joined by his fellow Throw Down contestant Ed King

With an emphasis on everything food, farming and flowers, you can watch live demonstrations of beekeeping, falconry and baking. Have a go with Great Pottery Throw Down finalist (and Weymouth resident) Dan Sandham, who is joined by his fellow Throw Down contestant Ed King. See the extreme BMX bikers, the gun dog display, and Sunday visitors get the extra treat of Titan the Robot in the main ring (11:45, 13:30 and 15:00)!

Two top tips for your visit – wear wellies, and take cash! The footing was getting mucky today, as you’d expect, and a lot of rain is expected overnight so I’d expect the mud to arrive tomorrow. And as per most rural shows, the data signal vanishes once the crowd starts to swell, so be sure you take cash with you (and don’t do what we did: patienlty navigate the 20 minute queue for a coffee only to find you can’t pay for it!)

If you missed today, you have a second chance tomorrow, Sunday 28th April, 9:30 – 17:00 – children go FREE and Adult Tickets are £15 on the gate. Tickets can be purchased on the gate, but we suggest buying online for faster entry – www.dorsetspringshow.co.uk

If you buy online, be sure to either print your ticket or screenshot the QR code on your phone before leaving home – signal onsite may not work!
FIND IT – postcode DT2 8PY and then follow the yellow direction signs when nearby.
Free Car Parking | Free Shuttle Bus from Dorchester & Poundbury

My skating habit

By

Editorial team

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27 April 2024

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Employ My Ability offers vocational training for students with learning disabilities and special educational needs and disabilities. One of their students, Maddie Walters, spent her work experience with us, and now writes a regular column – Ed

Special People On Ice, or SPICE, is an inclusive skating club for people who have additional needs from the age of seven. Since 2002, SPICE’s goal has been helping the skaters participate in ice skating, to improve their skill and to gain confidence in their ability. SPICE runs in the Slough Ice Arena every Sunday from 11am to 12pm. They cover al levels, from learn-to-skate groups to an ice hockey team and two synchronised skating teams.
In 2009, aged 12, I watched Ice Princess, a Disney movie – I promptly wanted to start ice skating, and joined SPICE.
A couple of years later, I was featured in a BBC Children in Need segment! I talked about how I joined SPICE and why I love skating. The presenters and film crew came to the ice rink to watch me skate – I even did a solo spin at the end of the segment!
I joined the SPICE synchronised skating team in 2018 and really enjoyed competing. SPICE Synchro was so popular it eventially split into two teams, SPICE Crystals and SPICE Sparkles – I am on SPICE Crystals.
We perform at competitions three times a year: Skate London, The Britannia Cup in Nottingham and the Steel City Trophy.
In March I took part in the Steel City Trophy competition in Sheffield – three days of performing and watching and cheering on the other team, it was a great experience. SPICE Crystals chose a Glee mash-up – just like SPICE, on the show they are one big family – and we did Makaton sign language at the end of the performance. We finished in second place and were awarded a silver medal. SPICE Sparkles came in first and got the gold!

To find out more information about SPICE and what we do, please visit spiceskating.org
In the video above, Maddie is on the left of the pair holding hands as they enter the ice

Heather’s Viennese biscuits

By

Editorial team

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26 April 2024

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This is a truly nostalgic recipe for me – I remember when I was growing up, there are a favourite of my dad’s.. When testing the recipe this week, a number of the baked biscuits disappeared into my family’s tummies before they ended up in their sandwiched form. It’s a good job that the recipe does yield a large batch!

Ingredients
Makes about 16-20 biscuits

170g / 6oz butter
170g / 6oz caster sugar
1tsp vanilla extract
2 eggs
340g / 12oz plain flour
225g / 8oz icing sugar
110 g / 4oz soft butter (spreadable butter works really well)
dark chocolate

Method

Line two baking trays and preheat the oven to 200º/180º fan/gas 6.
Mix together the butter, sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture turns pale and creamy (about five minutes with a spoon, maybe two minutes with an electric mixer).
Add the eggs and beat well, then gently stir in the flour.
Place the mixture into a piping bag with a star tip. This tip will give the ‘ridges’ to the biscuits – you can pipe the biscuits without it for a smoother bake. Pipe the biscuits onto the tray, either in lines or in swirls if you prefer a circular biscuit.
Bake in the oven for 15 minutes (or until golden), remove and allow to cool completely.
To make the buttercream icing, beat together the soft butter and icing sugar. Taste, and if not sweet enough, simply add a little milk and some more icing sugar.
For the finished biscuit – take one biscuit and spread a thick layer of buttercream over the bottom (the flat side). Then press the base of another biscuit to it to make a sandwich.
Melt the dark chocolate, dip each end of the biscuit in the chocolate and leave to set on a wire rack.

Options – if you would like chocolate biscuits, substitute 55g/2oz of flour for the same of sieved cocoa powder. You can also add some jam to one of the biscuits before sandwiching together with the buttercream.

FULL OR PART-TIME LEARNING SUPPORT ASSISTANTS (LSA) | Fairmead Community School

By

Editorial team

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26 April 2024

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ABOUT THE SCHOOL

Fairmead Community Special School transforms the lives of pupils aged between 4-19 years with additional learning needs (MLD and ASD). The school works in partnership with parents/carers and other stakeholders to develop our pupils in becoming positive individuals who make a valuable contribution to their community.

FULL OR PART-TIME LEARNING SUPPORT ASSISTANTS (LSA)

Full time based on 34.50 Hours per week, Term Time only (39 weeks).

Part-time hours are negotiable, Term Time only (39 weeks)

Grade 15-14 – £18,456 – £19,078 (full time annual gross salary). Part-time salary reflective or hours worked.

Working hours Mon, Wed, Thurs, and Fri 8.30am-3.45pm and Tues 8.30pm-4.30pm – 34.50 working hours. We can also offer supply hours for those who do not want to conform to a routine working week.

We are seeking to appoint outstanding Learning Support practitioners who are compassionate, dynamic and resourceful individuals to join our dedicated and hardworking team of skilful support staff to work across the whole school. A desired element to this role would be experience of supporting young people with Autism and moderate learning needs. For more details, please refer to the application information pack.

To obtain an application pack please view http://www.fairmeadschool.com/vacancies or contact [email protected]

Prospective candidates are warmly invited to visit our school; this can be arranged by contacting [email protected]

Closing/Shortlisting Date: Thursday 16^th May Interviews: Tuesday 21^st May.

Fairmead School is committed to safeguarding the school community. All job applications must contain the disclosure of any spent convictions and cautions. The school will carry out pre-employment vetting procedures, which include an online search for shortlisted candidates and the successful outcome of an enhanced DBS