Lady Louise O’Connor and the High Sheriff were welcomed to this ‘Outstanding-rated’ school in Woking, by Head Teacher, Glen Alder, and representatives from the ‘Owls’ and ‘Foxes’, who insisted on checking the HS’s business cards under Louise’s watchful eye!
Congratulations to all of Surry’s Universities and Colleges for presenting such a powerful display of excellent Outreach, Widening Participation and Volunteering activities at the High Sheriff’s Garden Party last night. There will be more detail to follow, but for the moment, everyone agreed that they really are the Pride of Surrey!
Volunteers from Patchworking Garden, Guildford Bike Project, The High Sheriff Youth Awards and The Surrey Volunteer Police Cadets were all working hard throughout the evening and impressed all the guests with their enthusiasm, dedication and sheer professionalism. Great adverts for the collective community spirit in Surrey.
Everyone agreed that, in terms of great entertainment, Nishi (Dance Shakti Troupe) and James (Academy for Contemporary Music) really did steal the show!
Well, as we heard at the seminar organised by Surrey Chambers of Commerce, and sponsored by Police and Crime Commissioner, David Monro, the sad fact is that it is indeed present and it is our collective responsibility (business, police and members of the public) to be a willing part of the solution. Powerful presentations from Assistant Chief Constable Jeremy Burton, Nicki Crayfourd (Compass Group – a huge employer in the UK and throughout the world) and Shayne Tyler (Manor Fresh), provided evidence and helpful ways forward for all interested parties. Support is available through Unseen UK and Stronger Together, two organisations with significant experience of this complex and distressing issue. ‘Be vigilant’ is the message from David and the High Sheriff!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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
