Discover more about Lincroft Meadow Care Home in Kidlington, here.

Founded in 2006 by Adam Marsh and Vanessa Cover, after rescuing a construction training provider from administration, ACE Training was built on a simple but powerful belief that talent doesn't come in one shape, one background, or one learning style. Two decades later, that belief continues to drive its mission. From the outset, ACE Training was never designed to replace schools or compete with colleges. It was created to fill a long-standing gap for young people who do not thrive in traditional classroom settings but excel in practical, hands-on learning environments connected to the real world of work. With Oxfordshire experiencing significant economic growth and housing expansion, the demand for skilled construction professionals has never been greater. Delivering large-scale residential and commercial developments requires a pipeline of work-ready tradespeople, from bricklayers and carpenters to property maintenance operatives. ACE Training plays a vital role in equipping young people with practical, in-demand skills while directly supporting the construction industry's workforce needs. As Managing Director, Adam Marsh explains: The belief that we could make a difference to young people locally whilst being commercially viable has always been at the forefront for me. To see the difference in young people is what makes it all worthwhile and fuels the drive to continue.

For her painted furniture she uses acrylics on wood surfaces which have been thoroughly prepared beforehand in order to protect and preserve the design: a silky smooth finish of varnish and then wax is applied. In addition to her paintings, she has introduced a new interest: intaglio, appliqué and inlay using coloured veneers on wood to create a decorative effect. Gabriella says: I love the feel of wood when I work. Trees have brought us the first fire, the first wheel, the first house and a surface to paint on. And I like to be part of this tradition. My graphic design background enhances harmony and symmetry in the designs I create.

Discover more about Gabriella's Marquetry work, here.