Celebrating the 2018 Sporting Successes of Team Surrey

President of the University of Surrey Students’ Union, Saskia Cochrane, kindly invited me to join the new Mayor of Guildford, Mike Parsons, at the Colours Ball last night. In spite of being in post for only a matter of days, and with an early morning appointment rapidly followed by their Civic Service at 11.30 today, Mike and Jean did not hesitate in supporting the 900 strong students gathered for the Awards. Everyone at the University greatly values such recognition from Guildford Borough Council. Student Union VPs Ali and Helena (together with the superb behind-the-scenes team) deserve great credit for organising such a mammoth event!

 

 

'Impressive Individuals Ready to Flourish'

Headmaster of the Royal Alexandra and Albert School, Mark Dixon, describes the development of such young people as being the Aim of the School. On the evidence of the Founders’ Day Commemoration & Prize Giving Ceremony today, that aim is being achieved big time!

I was privileged to be in the company of The Mayor of Reigate & Banstead, Roger Newstead; the Chair of SCC, Peter Martin; Chair of School Governors, William Gillen and Chair of the Foundation, David Frank, and we were all overwhelmed by the talent and ability being celebrated. Guest speaker Dr Tunde Okewale was highly entertaining – don’t miss hearing him if you get the chance!

The retiring duo of Head Girl, Katie Childs (pictured) and Head Boy, Angus Calder, are set to join the excellent Universities of Liverpool and Kent respectively – our collective best wishes to them both.

 

 

'Keeping Everyone at Gatwick Safe and Feeling Safe'

A reassuring and determined statement from Superintendent Justin Burtenshaw who leads the highly impressive teams looking after the safety of over 45m visitors and 30k staff, as Commander at Gatwick. The High Sheriff of West Sussex, Caroline Nicholls, organised a memorable day for the High Sherrifs of Kent, East Sussex and Surrey, as neighbouring and wholly involved regions served by, and indeed serving, this magnificent asset within the SE community. Special thanks to Justin and his colleagues – they would never say this, but they are role-models across Europe for the way they have forged such an effective partnership with all interested parties within and around Gatwick. Pictured are Caroline, Justine and the High Sheriff of East Sussex, John Moore-Bick, promoting the National Crimebeat charity; 

 

 

Behind the Scenes at Gatwick

The High Sheriffs of Kent (Jane Ashton), East Sussex (John Mooore-Bick) and Surrey (me!) were all privileged to enjoy a rare opportunity to find out what makes this impressive airport tick – all courtesy of the High Sheriff of West Sussex, Caroline Nicholls, the CEO, Stuart Wingate, and Chair, John Godfrey. The answer is, of course, people – and we met many of then as we toured the entire airport. Too many to mention – but our sincere thanks to you all!

The highly professional fire fighters on site examined two possible High Sheriff recruits (Caroline pictured) but had to decline our offer due to an aversion to back seat drivers!

 

 

SATRO – The Enabler Helping Kids to Grasp STEM Opportunities!

 

My thanks to Dawn (CEO) and Lucy (fundraising) for introducing me to the great work that the entire team at SATRO do in connecting schools/colleges/universities and employers, to provide the crucial STEM inspirations for pupils and students across Surrey. Delighted to hear about the strengthening links with the University of Surrey, through the significant efforts of the Vice-Chancellor and Professors Shirley Price and David Sampson. Some wonderful synergies and possibilities.

Pictured with me are the majority of the SATRO team, based on the University Research Park – enthusiasm and professionalism of the highest order!

 

Magistrates' Association Surrey Branch AGM

The High Sheriff’s duty to support the judiciary, the police and other law-enforcement agencies led to my very welcome invitation from the retiring Chair of the MA Surrey Branch, Gill Crichton JP, to attend the AGM earlier this evening. You may feel that an AGM would be rather boring, but far from it! Content, Guest Speaker, Questions and Debate all fascinating for a newcomer, and hugely informative. Also great to meet the incoming Chair, Karon Goodfellow JP and the new Mayor of Guildford, Cllr Mike Parsons;

An opportunity for us to give well earned thanks to all of our magistrates across the county, working tirelessly on our behalf on a voluntary basis. Great service to the community!

 

'No Child Lost or Forgotten'

 

A passionate and determined statement from Ian Enwright, Executive Headteacher (Primary) at Reigate Valley College, who kindly agreed to induct me into the world of the Phoenix Pupil Referral Unit. Ian’s entire team contributed fully to the lesson, and explained how they catered for the specific, individual needs of the current 9 pupils, who were equally keen to talk to the High Sheriff! A most impressive and fulfilling lesson, and one I look forward to repeating at all of the Surrey PRUs over the coming months.

And other Stars!

Also present was the founder and organiser of the Surrey Young Superstars Awards, Gemma Antrobus from Haslemere Travel. Gemma, Ray and Aurelia were the perfect hosts for this very special occasion – many thanks to them, Peter at Nat West, Surrey Life and Guildford harbour Hotel for your generous support. Surrey Youth Focus is delighted to have you on board!

 

 

Surrey Superstars!

It was a huge pleasure for us to support the Lord-Lieutenant, Michael More-Molyneux, yesterday as he presented the Awards to celebrate the often unsung achievements of our young people across Surrey. All winners are in the next issue of Surrey Life!

 

 

Campus and Buildings Beyond Compare!

I enjoyed my first ever visit to Royal Holloway and was welcomed by the inspirational Principal, Professor Paul Layzell. The Founders building can only be described as stunning, while the Chapel certainly lives up to the billing of ‘one of the most spectacular university buildings in the world’. From being one of the very first institutions to provide women with access to Higher Education well over a century ago, the impact of Royal Holloway continues to be felt within the community. From strong and effective links with Bronzefield prison to the 250 partnerships with businesses and, of course, the hugely impressive efforts of the student volunteers. Keep it up – the county is proud of you all!