The Epsom VPC Unit is now 33 strong, and the majority took the opportunity earlier tonight to ‘interrogate’ the High Sheriff! The questioning was intense and well targeted, and the cadets now know as much about the history and modern role of the High Sheriff as I do!!
Great ‘class photo’ with their Patron, taken by Staff Mark, a visitor volunteer from Reigate & Banstead Unit (always in charge of any situation)
We met in the Electric Theatre and had to try the coffee – Greg, it was brilliant!
Breathtaking visit to ACM, kindly arranged by Oli, supported by Lee and Chris, to find out more about this innovative, inclusive and hugely successful institution. The work undertaken by ACM to attract students from across the spectrum, entirely according to their personal drive, ambition and interests, led to my use of the word ‘breathtaking’. I am sure that many people living in Guildford, and across Surrey, will have little appreciation of just how much outreach activity ACM undertake, and how highly student wellbeing features on their agenda.
Important to get a photo of us with members of the impressive Student Services Team (nice one Jen!)
Spent an exhilarating hour or so this morning at the Farnham campus learning all about the innovative ‘Thrive’ programme run by UCA. This impactful outreach programme targets young people, irrespective of background, who may be ideal candidates for a ‘creative’ career, and highlights just what broad and exciting possibilities exist in this rapidly changing area. As V-C, Prof Bashir Makhoul, explained, the creative arts must never be forgotten as areas of career opportunity for young students. Who would have thought a few years ago that the UK digital games industry would have its heart in Guildford, employ over 1,000 people and turnover hundreds of £millions each year? And the skills required cover all of the creative arts areas found in the UCA prospectus. Andy suggested that we consider a ‘Creative Careers Conference’ later in the year, with the High Sheriff using his ‘power to convene’.
Any thoughts from interested parties will be gratefully received!
In case you wonder whose brilliant artwork we are pictured in front of, let me give you a clue – it is the V-C himself!!
It was a real privilege to Join the CC, Nick Ephgrave, and the PCC, David Munro, in recognising the exceptionally talented individuals receiving awards for long service (both officers and staff) and Chief Constable’s Commendations for effort beyond the call of duty. Great to see that several staff from Surrey County Council were also recognised as key members of the broad Police teams tackling some of the most difficult crimes faced by our county.
A privilege also to meet Dennis and Carol Gunn, who were present as sponsors of the Richard Gunn memorial Award, this year presented to PC Will Nicholas, an outstanding Area Patrol Team Officer. As Dennis observed, Will is very much in Richard’s style, and a most appropriate recipient of the award (photo)
Fantastic weather for a great Westcott sporting event! The pupils, family and friends all turned out to support this exhibition of determination and talent – lots of future star track athletes in evidence, but the thing that really stood out to Mrs Radcliffe, Head, and her team of teachers and support staff, was the exceptional team work on display amongst all the young people.
Special thanks to a very special teacher who makes it all possible behind the scenes, and who is such a sporting inspiration to all the pupils (the majority have now had the chance to represent their school) – Carolyn Stowell (below)
Today is a special day for 21 new citizens of the UK, as they enjoyed the Citizenship Ceremony at County Hall. Anne, Deputy Superintendent Registrar, led the proceedings (Photo) and Jean ensured that all signatures were correctly recorded – a most professional event to formally mark the great occasion!
A real pleasure to be in attendance at this beautiful service at St Mary’s Church, Thorpe, for the new Mayor of Runnymede, Cllr Mrs Dolsie Clarke. The music, hymns and Choir were excellent throughout, and the Vicar of St Mary’s, Father Damian Miles, did confide that Royal Holloway had also kindly provided assistance. The tea was well earned! (Great job with the photo Harry!)
A privilege to have been invited to join ACC Nev Kemp and his senior team for this excellent celebration of volunteering on behalf of the Surrey community.
And, of course, Nev himself was recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours announced this morning, with the award of the Queen’s Police Medal – Congratulations from the community of Surrey!
So many well-earned rewards for Special Constables, Volunteer Police Cadets and Police Support Volunteers – superb dedication to Surrey. Thanks to three special advisors who all received Long Service Awards as Police Support Volunteers, Nail, Raj and Cliff;
Enjoyed a stimulating meeting at the CFfS HQ in Guildford with Laura (Chief Executive) and Joe (Director of Philanthropy) discussing the many, potentially huge, opportunities that exist across the county to bring together resources (through philanthropy and also use of existing facilities eg college gyms over the summer) to meet the growing demand from young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. We parted determined to do something about it – and when Laura and Joe say that, watch this space!
My visit to the Woking unit of the Surrey Volunteer Police Cadets inspired this blog for all interested young people to get in touch with their local Unit – there are six across Surrey, all staffed by experienced Police personnel on an entirely voluntary basis.
Discipline is rigorous, as is to be expected, but some of the drills are somewhat more relaxed, as you can see!