Thomas Knyvett College 'Class of 2018' – 'Everything Is Possible!'

An inspirational evening spent with the TKC ‘Class of 2018’ at the invitation of Headteacher, Janise Marillat (left), the students much respected lead teacher, Abi Roger de Coverley-Smith (right), Head Girl, Emily, and Head Boy, Akasha. The entire student, staff and support body deserve great credit for their impressive collective achievements, but Janise asked that two individuals receive special High Sheriff Awards; Roxana (centre) for the student who made ‘Most Progress Whilst At TKC’, and to Abi herself for ‘Resilience And Determination For Self And Others’. Thanks also to Mr Bellamy who managed the tricky logistics of finding all of the GCSE Certificates and Awards, just in time for the handshakes!

  

 

Harvest Coffee Shop Officially Open!

This has to be one of the best examples I have encountered of true ‘community spirit’ involving all stakeholders – volunteers, businesses and local families alike. Located in the Harvest Community Church, the initiative was started by Claire (second right) and Tony (second left); encouraged by Pastor Nelson (right) and supported by Matt from Clarion Futures (the charity arm of Clarion Housing). Jane (left) is managing the cafe, whilst also preparing for her Ordination (or as her family has it ‘lamination’!) very soon – our collective best wishes for a wonderful day!

Claire and Tony run Mid Surrey Community Fridges, one of a growing number of such ventures throughout the country, and collect unwanted food from the supermarkets and offer it to locals in need of such support. And what about this for a brilliant summary of their offer for everyone;

‘Take what you like – Give what you can’

 

 

Goldsworth Primary School – Determined to be 'Inclusive'!

Headteacher, Gill (centre), and Assistant Head & Senco, Alison, shared their plans for doing all they can to welcome the growing number of children with EHCPs choosing Goldsworth Primary because of their acknowledged success with children who have additional educational needs. Such an impressive approach requires extra resources dedicated to ensuring that staff numbers are at the right level and special training is provided as required – not an easy task in the current budget-restrained times. Gill and Alison are finalising their thoughts and have asked that all possible High Sheriff ‘connections’ are utilised with relevant charities and other Heads successfully adopting such pragmatic but inclusive agendas – they will indeed be made!

I was fortunate to meet the Pupil Parliament, who provided some brilliant, thought provoking input – watch out for another blog over the coming days with the photos!

Surrey Hills Enterprises Awards Two Gold Trade Marks & Salutes Two 'Young Entrepreneurs'!

 

The Members Annual Event was held at the impressive Barnett Hill Hotel, and featured the presentation of well deserved Gold Trade Mark Awards to both Clandon Wood (accepted by Business Development Manager, Simon Ferrar) and Shere Kitchens (accepted by Ella Driscoll) for their inspirational collaboration designed to connect two populations of a rare butterfly.

The Young Entrepreneur Award for 2019 was split between two talented young people, living in the Surrey Hills, who have developed outstanding skills within their chosen field. Luke Whatley-Bigg of Photography Possibilities (left) and Jack Kerr of JK Forges:

 

 

Initial Meeting With The Leader of Surrey County Council

A pleasure to have the opportunity of sharing the thoughts of ‘new’ Leader of the Council, Tim Oliver, who was keen to discuss the prime responsibility of his challenging role – ‘overall vision and strategic direction’. As the strategic lead for the Transformation Programme, Tim’s insights into both the immediate priorities, and also the medium term challenges and opportunities, were most valuable. We certainly share a belief that true partnerships will be an essential element of a successful future for the county.

  

 

Very Warm Welcome For New Citizens!

Anne, Deputy Superintendent Registrar, welcomed out latest batch of new citizens in blazing sunshine at the Citizenship Ceremony in County Hall, and we were at pains to explain that is not typical weather for February! However, after the earthquake in the early hours of the morning, who can tell?!

 

'STEPS to 16' Receive HSYA Certificate

A great pleasure to present the High Sheriffs Youth Award certificate to Jane Cronin, a Senior Trainer at Surrey Care Trust’s renowned ‘STEPS to 16’ programme based at their Woking Learning Centre. Jane has led the impactful Drug Awareness Module, funded by HSYA, under the leadership of Richard (left), Manager of both the Learning Centre and the powerful ‘STEPS to 16’ initiative, which gives a second chance to 14-16 year olds who have been struggling in mainstream school. Richard has a brilliant way of describing the purpose of STEPS to 16 -‘Everyone should have the opportunity to succeed through being motivated and inspired’.

 

 

Local Dorking VIP Re-Launches Bright Horizons Active Learning and Preschool!

Delighted to be asked by Nursery Manager Becca (left) to support the Local VIP Graduate, Grace, as she officially opened the newly refurbished Bright Horizons Nursery in Dorking. The new Art Room and innovative Children’s Kitchen are most impressive and the entire centre was packed with families keen to see the new facilities.

  

Guildford Boxing Club – A True Centre of Excellence!

Internationally renowned trainer John Edwards (behind Nike! – and below) ensured that the impressive club boxers of all ages provided a knock-out welcome! Situated in Park Barn, John has many impressive ideas for delivering even greater outreach activities for local young people through the Club. Local Community action at it’s best!

 

 

Redhill Boxing Club @ 'Like 2 Box' Gym

Great to meet Ian (left) and Ron at Redhill, courtesy of Joyce Quinnell, CEO Surrey Clubs for Young People, and to meet the impressive young boxers (accompanied by very proud Mums!)