Warm Welcome at Brooklands College!

And it had nothing to do with the weather! Starting with the friendly security officer, then on to the helpful receptionist, the charming and efficient PA, Angela, right up to the Principal, Gail Walker herself, the entire culture at Brooklands College is focused on service delivery for everyone visiting, and particularly for the students themselves. Gail explained that it is this ‘family’ approach, individually crafted to suit each student, that sets Brooklands apart. I look forward to returning to sample the student-created restaurant fare!

 

 

Meath Summer Spectacular!

The Meath Summer Reception was held last night in the beautiful setting of Loseley Park, thanks to the generosity of Lord Lieutenant Michael and Sarah More-Molyneux. The event was very well attended by many current and future supporters of this impactful epilepsy charity, including Dan Adams, Mayor of Surrey Heath, and Sarah Adams, Mayoress, who have selected Meath as one of their Charities for the year – Brilliant choice!

Everyone was encouraged to visit Meath in Godalming for one hour over the coming months to sample the wonderful atmosphere (my suggestion is certainly to call in the cafe and sample the great cakes!). Or, if you are in the town centre, call in at ‘Changing Perceptions’ in the High Street – you will be impressed!

 

 

Surrey Hills School – Abinger Sports Stars!

Another great family sports day at Surrey Hills School, this time at Abinger. Excellent organisation and a careful watch on the temperature ensured a wonderful time was had by all – particularly the proud winning team Captains!

 

 

Brooklands on Short List for 'Museum of the Year'

And just one visit with Tamalie Newbery (centre), Director and CEO, is all that is needed to understand why! In her own inspirational words ‘ Brooklands Museum not only protects precious and rare items, it also preserves the attitude associated with those times’ – a brilliant insight and a major differentiator! The Museum also has a highly effective partnership with Surrey Family Services and the Youth Support Services, where young people are able to contribute to the efforts of Brooklands, and their 600 active volunteers, by giving invaluable service and support to all elements of the work on site. Another example of Ellie Paterson’s inspirational programmes for young people on behalf of SCC and our community across the county

 

 

Probably the Best NICU in The World!

 

It was a privilege to accept Chairman, Andy Field’s kind invitation to meet the wonderful NICU team at Ashford & St Peter’s Hospitals. This brilliant combination of skilled professionals

have formed a highly effective partnership with SCC Youth Support Service, who arrange for beautiful Memory Boxes (on display) to be made by young people under their wings, to provide practical support for grieving parents. They also manufacture creative toys and rehabilitation aids for other patients (well done Ian – far right above). Jo, Bereavement Nurse (next to Andy) even came in on her day off just to ensure that we received a full briefing – great dedication.

In case you are wondering, the High Sheriff is indeed holding the baby (a worryingly realistic training model!), flanked by Andy and Ellie Paterson (SCC).

Just look at the red dots below, showing how broadly this leading-edge service is utilised;

 

 

Royal Visit to Box Hill School

 

Trustees, Staff and students joined local dignitaries to welcome HRH The Earl of Wessex to the magnificent setting of Box Hill School to mark the official opening of the impressive Sports Centre. A great facility for the School – but also for members of the local community, who are encouraged to use the new centre when not in use by the pupils. Also, other aspiring stars such as the Surrey Girls Under 13 Cricket Team are able to thrive under the ‘Inspirational’ banner championed by Box Hill School!

All credit to John Banfield, Chairman of Governors, and Cory Lowde, Headmaster (above)

Royal Visit to Guildford Bike Project

HRH The Earl of Wessex was welcomed by Trustees, staff, volunteers and learners this afternoon, for a tour of the project and workshops, and to present certificates to several young people who have recently gained qualifications – the wonderful outcome regularly delivered by the Surrey Lifelong Learning Partnership.

 This project is a great example of teamwork, with Guildford Borough Council, Surrey County Council and Safer Guildford Partnership all involved. The project is also now established in Walton, thanks to the additional support of Walton Charity.

 

40 Degreez AGM

Another successful year for this well-established Farnham charity, offering support, friendship and a sense of community to young people in the local catchment area. Chair of Trustees, Janet Maines, highlighted the increasing challenges associated with funding, but emphasised that local needs were ever present, and that the great work will go on! 

The search for new Trustees and youth volunteers is on, so if you are interested please get in touch. Janet remains as determined as ever, and enjoyed welcoming the support of Rob Douglas,DL, and Denise Le Gal, Mayor of Waverley.

 

 

Surrey Sports Park Perfect Venue for Surrey Youth Games

 

The 22nd Surrey Youth Games have been a resounding success! Over 3,200 young people have been involved throughout the year, coached and supported by over 600 volunteers in 1,200 free coaching sessions. This weekend , 200 teams and over 1,200 young people have been having the time of their lives!

Mayors and Borough officials all entered into the spirit of the event – above, James (CEO Guildford BC), Richard (Deputy Mayor, Guildford) and Julian (Deputy Mayor, Reigate and Banstead) are all suitably attired to support ‘their’ teams. Below is what Dolsie, Mayor of Runnymede, describes as their ‘boxing team!’

 

 

Guildford Cathedral Marks Armed Forces Week

An uplifting service in beautiful sunshine, superbly supported by cadets from the RAF, Army and Navy.

 

The cadets marched in impressive style to form a Surrey Parade, inspected by the Lord Lieutenant, Vice-Lord Lieutenant and High Sheriff.