Keith Weller from Friends of Conway Rec reports on last week's ceremony inaugurating the park's Learning Circle.
In June, after a two-year covid-caused delay, the Friends of Conway Rec were finally able to install the mosaic ‘learning circle’ that now illuminates this small local park.
Kate Baptiste, head teacher at St Monica's school, cuts the ribbon
The project began after an installation by mosaic artist Tamara Froud had been spotted on the Thames riverside path. As it happens, two of the Friends’ volunteers knew Tamara and were confident she would be willing and able to represent local animal and plant life artistically in the form of a circular mosaic. The thinking was that neighbouring primary school pupils could then use the circle as a stimulus and starting point for nature study tours around the park.
Children contributed drawings and paintings of the birds, animals, trees and plants they’d seen in the Rec.The Friends of the Rec added their input, and Tamara designed and installed a spectacular piece of artwork that has already made a big impact.
This community achievement deserved recognition, and the Friends of Conway Rec invited local residents to a ‘ceremony’ last week. Volunteers and supporters assembled with representatives of St Monica’s School, Enfield’s Parks Team and local councillors to conduct a formal ‘opening’. In beautiful sunshine, artist Tamara talked about her work, local councillors spoke warmly, and head teacher Kate Baptiste cut the ribbon, supported by pupils and parents. Fizz, nibbles and chat were then enjoyed in the tennis clubhouse by all.
The Learning Circle mosaic in Conway Rec was created by Tamara Froud based on drawings by children from St Monica's school of plant and animal life in the Rec. Incorporated into it are the initials of three Friends of Conway Rec members who passed away during the three years that it took to create the mosaic
The project needed funding, of course. Enfield Council helped with the costs of the base and stone edging and St Monica’s contributed to the mosaic materials and installation. Conway Rec Friends covered the balance. The volunteers have no regular income source, so rely on grants and donations. If you’d like to contribute - or just learn more about the Friends’ activities and aspirations - do make contact through
When you next fancy a bit of exercise, Conway Rec beckons. You’ll find grassy slopes, wilder areas, a small pond with nesting islands, water birds, flowers, colourful hedges and impressive oak trees. Be sure to locate the mosaic learning circle and check how many of the plants, animals and birds you can identify. NB No tigers or flamingos – yet!