Celebrating Diversity in Woking!

The Mayor of Woking, Will Forster, and Mayoress, Hannah Thompson, arranged a wonderful Civic Celebration this afternoon, celebrating diversity and inclusion within the Borough. Will and Hannah received great support from Revd Lucy Brierly, Head Imam, Hafiz M Hashmi, Revd Jonathan Thomas and the Chairman of Woking People of Faith, Simon Trick.

In addition the large gathering were superbly entertained by music students from Woking High School, the Epworth Choir and brilliant Lion Dancing and a Tai Chi Fan Dance from members of the Chinese Association of Woking.

A moving reading of a personal poem entitled ‘Why I Love Woking’ from Westfield Primary School won lengthy applause, while Will’s charities for his year, The York Road Project and Woking & District MENCAP were powerfully represented.

All in all, a memorable afternoon – well done Woking!

 

 

Superb Parade at Gordon's School!

Great care was taken to ensure the wellbeing of all students on parade at today’s quite exceptional Annual Inspection and Parade, followed by the uplifting Prize Giving ceremonies for Junior and Senior students.

 

It was a privilege to be Guest of Honour for this inspirational day of celebration, and I was most grateful for the support and guidance from Regimental Sgt Major Phil Fox, who kept me on the straight and narrow throughout!

Patchworking Garden Open Day Tomorrow!

Don’t miss this brilliant opportunity to see one of the best kept secrets in Dorking, as Carmel (Founder – on my right) and her entire team of Trustees, volunteers and supported volunteers

 

 showcase all of their great achievements! Call in any time between 12.00 and 4.00pm and join the celebrations – you certainly will be most welcome! 

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.