Richard is a keen fundraiser and loves testing himself with new adventures. He has volunteered for many international charities such as International Aid and Development and Human Rights and now he wants to raise funds and awareness a bit closer to home.

“A while ago I remember ‘accidently’ doing a fundraising bungee jump and this time I like to think I have come up with another interesting, engaging and exciting challenge!”

This autumn, Richard aim’s to travel using surface transportation only; i.e. no flying, from our Arts and Crafts office in Knaresborough to the summit of Volvan Chimborazo in Ecuador. At 6,310 metres the peak of Chimborazo is high enough, but because of the bulge of the equator it is also the highest point on the planet from the centre of the earth, meaning it is also the point in which tobe closest to space, the stars and beyond – it is literally on top of the World!

“As well as my work overseas I have always enjoyed high level mountaineering and travel in general, I celebrated my 40th birthday recently by hitching around the world on freighters and cargo ships so I am doubly excited about this challenge. A basic outline of the journey as it stands now is to sail from Europe to West Africa, on to Brazil, down the coast to come ashore proper at Buenos Aires before travelling up through the continent, acclimatizing to altitude and having adventures as I go before finally climbing Chimborazo.”

Richard hopes to complete his challenge in approximately 3 months fundraising along the way via http://www.justgiving.com/Richard-Fountain. En route he will also be publishing a blog of his progress, featuring pictures, video clips and maps of where he is up to.

All monies raised in the run up to and during Richard’s challenge will go directly to Henshaws, even some of the small administration fees justgiving charge he will reimburse himself. His target at the moment is set at £6,310, £1 per metre above sea level to the summit of Chimborazo.

Richard’s blog will be up and running soon and we will let you know when it does, in the meantime please support Richard in this amazing challenge and donate to Henshaws here http://www.justgiving.com/Richard-Fountain.

What an amazing challenge! Good Luck Richard!

“Hello, I am Sophie. I live in Leeds with my Mum, Dad and two brothers. My brothers are called Richard and Sam. I also have two dogs and a cat. My dogs are a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel called Meg and a chocolate Labrador called Penny. My cat is called Jess and he’s a black and white cat.

I have Mitochondrial disorder which effects my speech and mobility. I have had three Lightwriters and the Lightwriter SL40 Connect is the best one for me because I can make phone calls to book taxis. It’s a lot better than the SL39 which didn’t do texts messages and phone calls. I am a lot more independent with my Lightwriter SL40 Connect because I can book taxis by myself now to go out shopping and buy sweets. I can now check my balance which on the Lightwriter SL40 I couldn’t.

I am very sociable so I needed my system volume turning up so people could hear me in busy places. I am in my second year at Henshaws College and have grown in confidence and independence. Last year with my Lightwriter SL40 I started using my talker with Windows speech recognition to write documents in Word and use the Internet.

I have a load of gadgets which include; my iPod Touch, my Kindle, my Bluetooth enabled wheelchair, a tripod with a camera on it and my talker of course! Peter at Leeds Specialist Inclusive Learning Centre is the best because he gets me stuff like my talkers. He even came to college to lend me a brand new SL40 before I got my Connect when my old SL40 broke. I am the only one who has a Lightwriter in college. I was also the first in Leeds to get a Connect because I can use it so well and am very lucky. I keep finding stuff I didn’t know I had; like if you press ‘Shift’ + ‘Pick’ it comes up with punctuation, symbols and accents. I love my talker. I can do jokes. I have also written this article on my talker’s notepad.”

Gill Jennison, Principal of the college said “I’m delighted that once again, we have gained a positive report from Ofsted, my thanks to everyone who contributes at the college, and also to the students themselves for their hard work.”

The CQC reports covering all of our community housing across the society were also very positive, providing no recommendations or statutory requirements from the inspectors and being judged compliant against all aspects including; respecting and involving people who use the services, care and welfare of people who use the services and safeguarding them from abuse, supporting workers and assessing and monitoring the quality of service provision.

Frank Ward, Director of Community Housing said “The hard work and dedication of the staff has been a major factor in gaining these successful reports. Many practices and procedures which we have developed have contributed not only to gaining positive reports, but most importantly, to the happiness and wellbeing of our residents”

The reports are an excellent reminder that Henshaws remains to this day a caring organisation, helping people to live independent and fulfilling lives, something which Thomas Henshaw would have been proud of.

After the discovery of a tea chest with artefacts and objects pertaining to the legacy of the charity, the team at Henshaws knew that we had to share share the history and interesting stories found in an all-sensory exhibition. The display will trace the story surrounding Thomas Henshaw’s legacy and the rich history of Henshaws. It will explore the charity’s history and the history of visual impairment as well as commissioning new contemporary artworks. It will feature the fascinating stories from people who have been part of Henshaws throughout the years.

The exhibition is planned to open at Gallery Oldham later this year and will then tour regionally. By touring the exhibition we will be engaging with a much wider audience in the legacy, sharing our history and fostering a greater understanding amongst sighted people of the challenges faced by those with visual impairment.

You can read more on some of the interesting stories and history about Thomas Henshaw and Henshaws here. We will be keeping you all up to date with our progress, but do keep an eye out in the press and media!

Powered by Everyclick, which since 2005 has raised over £2 million for charities, Give as you Live gives online shoppers the opportunity to donate to Henshaws when they check out, a percentage of the price will then go straight to Henshaws paid for by the retailer. The site also allows you to make wish lists for yourself as well as friends and family.

And this month Give as you Live have launched a new scheme in order to help Henshaws and other charities earn at least £3,000 this year!  If you sign up by 31st March 2012, Give as you Live will donate an additional £5 to us after you spend £10 or more through Give as you Live. This means that if we get at least 100 new shoppers, we could raise £3000 towards our services! But we need to get at least 25 shoppers before 31st March 2012, so to help Henshaws be in with a chance of raising £3000 please visit our page here on Give as you Live.

Henshaws was recently announced as one of the charity partners for the brand new Greater Manchester Marathon in Trafford, Manchester’s first marathon for more than a decade, alongside local charity The Christie.

The race will take place in Trafford on 29th April  2012 and will start and finish in Longford Park in Stretford. The five thousand runners expected to take part will pass iconic landmarks such as the Old Trafford football and cricket grounds and Dunham Massey Park over the 26mile course.

To be one of the first lucky 6 to gain free entrance to the Manchester Marathon (normally £48!), minimum sponsorship is £500, contact Hannah.saxon@henshaws.org.uk or call 01423 814501.

Good luck!

 The students, two of whom are sight impaired, and their  teachers spent the day at the Malham National Park Centre  outlining what they would need to help them and others like  them to enjoy, explore and experience the area more easily.

And they had a chance to try out a range of interpretation equipment being developed including Braille labels and Pen Friends – audio tools that allow people with a visual impairment to independently listen to the interpretation around them in the National Park Centre.

Meghann Hull, the YDNPA’s Access Development Officer, said: “The Authority has made a lot of progress over the years improving the Rights of Way network in the National Park for people with limited mobility.

“The one thing we haven’t done much of, though, is reaching out to people with sensory impairments and providing them with opportunities to enjoy and experience the special qualities of the National Park.”

She and three colleagues have been working on a new project called Sense the Dales that is using Malham as a pilot location.

“If it is successful, we hope to establish it in other areas of the National Park and hopefully at our other National Park Centres,” Meghann said.

The students tested a new sensory audio trail that took them through the village and along the Pennine Way to Malham Cove – one of the most popular and accessible routes in the National Park.

The project aims to develop the trail and possibly to install some small interpretive plaques along the route that have raised images carved into them, representing various features of the surrounding landscape.

 The cake was cut by Julie Edwards, longest serving member of  staff in Yorkshire, Debbie Gill, longest serving member of staff at  Henshaws College and Luke Demaine, our youngest student  currently at college.

Ex-staff and students from the college were also invited to the party and asked to share their memories of times gone by. A special exhibition to mark the occasion had been set up at the college and will be added to throughout the academic year.

College Prinicpal, Gill Jennison, commented: “It was a wonderful occasion, full of happy memories. I was delighted to be able to welcome back so many ex-students and members of staff.”

Henshaw’s Blind Asylum was established in Manchester  in 1837 but in 1966 Harrogate was selected as the site for the new Henshaws School. The new school was opened in November 1971 by the Duchess of Kent.

In 1985 Henshaws School changed from a secondary school to a college, specialising in visual impairment and offering specialist further education to students with disabilities and learning difficulties aged between 16 and 25.

Other royal visitors to Henshaws College include Princess Dianna in 1989 and Princess Anne in 1992. 

 Past pupils and staff reunited to reminisce about happy days spent at Henshaws, at the 2nd Annual Reunion event.

With some of the students' memories of their schooldays dating back as far as the late 1950s, there was much to chat about under the supervision of Thelma Harrison, former girls' PE teacher at Henshaws and organiser of the reunion. Guest of honour was John Ellithorne, deputy headmaster at the school when many of the “old boys and girls” attended, and his son Peter who has happy memories of mingling with the students as a child. Also helping with the event was former House Mother Sue Linfoot and Tony Baldwin, brother of former student Desmond who attended the reunion.

Around 30 former students travelled from far and wide to attend the event which included organised outings and get-togethers, and ample opportunities for the attendees to catch up on half a century's experiences with their former classmates.

The former students at the reunion included:

Denise Ross – Paralympic medallist in shotput and discus

Kevin Robinson – DJ

Antoine Reeves – Medium

Stephen Goulding – MBE

The event acknowledged the culmination of three years of education and guidance for 25 visually-impaired and disabled students, who have learnt valuable life and employment skills, equipping them to make a successful transition to the next stage of their lives.

Cllr Les Ellington, Mayor of Harrogate and Cllr Andrew Willoughby, Mayor of Knaresborough, joined Henshaws College director of curriculum and acting principal Gill Jennison to co-present certificates and “transitions passports” which summarise what students have learned and the qualifications they have gained. The graduates were also given a yearbook, a DVD featuring the students and a talking alarm clock as a leaving gift.

Gill Jennison opened the event by congratulating the students on their hard work in learning practical skills to enable them to look after themselves, as well as picking up technological and advanced social skills and the ability to work with other adults.

Student Phillip Potts, 22, said: “I’d like to move into supported living and take a college course. I want to thank all the staff at Henshaws who helped me find confidence to do so many new things.”

Fellow student John Pratt, 21, added: “I had a fantastic time at college. My favourite thing was working on hospital radio because I enjoyed playing songs for everyone. I will miss Henshaws and I want to say good luck to all leavers.”

John’s mother, Carol Pratt, said proudly: “John has spent an enjoyable two years at the college. Staff at Henshaws have provided our whole family with a tremendous amount of support– which I am truly grateful for. They are a fantastic team that have made a huge difference to the lives of so many young people.

“I’m thrilled to see John graduating today. He had a wonderful time at the college and he will carry his experience with him throughout his life.”

Following the graduation two further awards were made, congratulating students on their enthusiastic approach to life and learning. The Maxine Foster award was won by Mohammed Faysal Ansar and the Joshua Rayner award went to Terri-Anne Walker. These awards were established in memoriam of a former Henshaws staff member and student respectively.

Cllr Less Ellington, Mayor of Harrogate said: “This was a moving experience. I’ve been to a few graduations and this was one of the most uplifting, as we witness how the students overcome challenges, develop the self confidence to be themselves as well as inspiring those around them.”

Cllr Andrew Willoughby, Mayor of Knaresborough, said: “I have visited Henshaws on several occasions and this is my first graduation ceremony – which has really helped to bring the whole concept together for me. It’s wonderful to see the pleasure that the college is bringing to so many people, both students and parents alike.”

Gill Jennison concluded: “The graduation is a momentous milestone in our calendar and it’s a privilege to watch the students grow up and mature. We give them many challenges to overcome and they show great courage and determination. They are now equipped for the next stage of their lives and we are immensely proud of their achievements.”

Henshaws College caters for more than 70 full-time students; most have a visual impairment as well as complex physical disabilities and learning difficulties. The majority are residential, but we also offers day college placements to local young people and a range of school link courses to pupils from Harrogate and Leeds high schools.

Our aim is to promote independent living and employability skills. Our specialist curriculum covers vocational training in five pathways (hospitality, retail and administration, horticulture, arts and crafts, and media and communications), independence skills, mobility and travel training, sports, fitness and leisure, literacy and numeracy – as well as offering support in physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech and language.

The vocational technology centre will replace our college’s old student residential accommodation, Tarn House, which has been vacant since 2008 following the opening of a new purpose-built facility.

Two-year-old Oscar O’Sullivan-Hughes, one of the youngest Henshaws service users and official face of our charity, started off the demolition of the old building that the new centre will replace. Oscar is completely blind due to a rare genetic condition called Lebers Congenital Amaurosi, and fronts a fundraising campaign to increase awareness of our ongoing work to help people with visual impairments and disabilities.

An innovator in the use of technology in education, our new centre will provide visually-impaired and disabled students with a range of technology-based vocational pathways from media and IT to print and design.

In addition, the development will house a state-of-the-art multi-media suite, featuring a radio station, and film and music recording facilities which have the technology to develop audio information for visually impaired people.

Gill Jennison, acting principal at Henshaws College, said: “We’re thrilled that Oscar kicked off the initial work on our new centre. He is a great champion for Henshaws – it meant so much to both our staff and students that he celebrated this new project with us. 

“Technology is at the forefront of our curriculum. The new centre will enable us to continue to offer an effective and creative learning environment for our students as well as service users from our 15 community houses and art makers from our Arts & Crafts Centre.”

Oscar’s mum, Kait Hughes added: “Oscar was delighted to help Henshaws College get the demolition underway in preparation for the new centre, which will help visually impaired people like him. We’re grateful for Henshaws support – the charity has been a lifeline for Oscar in helping him to build up his confidence and skills.”

Building work is expected to be completed by September 2012

Congratulations to the team who won the trophy for best product. Each member of the team also received a certificate of achievement for gained practical work experience.

Vocational training and practical work experience is central to our college curriculum and a team of students are now running our new state of the art print service as a social enterprise venture. This latest milestone allows us to expand the range of products we are able to offer individuals and companies to include canvasses and prints, large banners, corporate stationery and even conference lanyards.

If you are interested in finding out more about how you could use Henshaws Print call 01423 886451.

“My name is Jon Hardman and I have been at Henshaws College for just over two years.

I am studying two pathways in horticulture and hospitality and I have really enjoyed all the practical parts of my course. I have just finished a tree-planting project and this spring I am really looking forward to using a lawnmower and learning how to maintain it.

Last year I worked in the cafe at the Henshaws Arts & Crafts Centre. Then the college arranged a work placement for me at Julie’s Cafe nearby where I could use all the customer service and hospitality skills I had learned.

I have just finished a brilliant 10-week course at Julie's Coffee School and now I have barista skills! That means I am qualified to use the cafe’s machine to make all different kinds of coffee and hot chocolate. I love making drinks for the other students too.

I never thought I would be able to learn all these things but our college tutors and Julie at the Coffee School make it all very easy.

Learning outside of the college is great as I can see how my new work skills can be used in real life.

I am so much more confident now and I have found work that I enjoy. I know a lot about trees and gardening and almost everything about coffee making. I will be sad when I have to leave college this July but  if I can find  a job using my new skills, that will make me very happy!”

Team Henshaws conquered the Special Olympics in style!

A group of 17 students from Henshaws College competed in the 2011 regional Yorkshire and Humberside Special Olympics Athletics, with great success. The hard work paid off, as the team claimed an amazing 35 medals, and 8 team members also achieved personal bests in their events.

A big thank you to all the staff that supported the event on the day, with the training and the organisation!

Well done to Team Henshaws for another great day.

Henshaws College students walked to raise funds for the sports, fitness and leisure department at the college. Phil Webster, Sports & Fitness Instructor said: “The Nidderdale Walk is an opportunity for students and service users to participate in an event they know will stretch their physical ability and, for students with no sight, to test their trust in the college staff and volunteers.

“The walk also offers the opportunity to participate in an event that is open to everyone and involves people from all walks of life. Henshaws participants really relish the opportunity to let their individual abilities shine through, in addition to raising funds for causes close to their heart.”

If you fancy taking up a local challenge, and supporting Henshaws, you can find out more information and sign up here (link will open in new window)

Once you've signed up, contact us for a Fundraising Pack. We'll also send you sponsorship forms, and a very snappy orange Henshaws t-shirt!

You can reach our fundraising team at fundraising@henshaws.org.uk or call (01423) 814501.

The Nidderdale Charity Walk is an annual event, and Henshaws College students always take part.

They will be walking either 4, 7, 15 or 22 miles – showing that a visual impairment or other disability is no barrier to taking up the charity challenge! Good luck to all students and Henshaws supporters on Sunday 15th May 2011.

If you fancy taking up a local challenge, and supporting Henshaws, you can find out more information and sign up here (link will open in new window)

Once you've signed up, contact us for a Fundraising Pack. We'll also send you sponsorship forms, and a very snappy orange Henshaws t-shirt!

You can reach our fundraising team at fundraising@henshaws.org.uk or call (01423) 814501.

Hunters, VocaLink and Barclays Bank are among a raft of new corporate supporters and corporate social responsibility champions (CSR) who have pledged to help with wide-ranging fund raising and promotional activities during 2011. We have developed powerful partnerships with local and regional businesses.

The growing popularity of our innovative ‘Henshaws Means Business’ programme  has provided wide-ranging services – such as visual impairment awareness training, disability etiquette training and disability advice and consultancy – to local organisations since March 2009. In the same year, board member and high-profile businessman Lindsay Ross launched the Henshaws Business Network forum which has also introduced many corporate supporters to the charity.     

Supporters also include hlw Commercial Lawyers and the Chamber of Commerce for York, Leeds & North Yorkshire. The high-profile Yorkshire International Business Convention has also nominated Henshaws as its adopted charity for the second successive year.

A wealth of fundraising successes has seen Barclays raising £1,500 for Henshaws Yorkshire’s Wear Bright For Sight Day, Reed Boardall donate £1,000 towards a state-of-the-art printing facility and hlw Commercial Lawyers boosting funds to the tune of £550 from a special charity quiz. 

Said Hunters managing director Kevin Hollinrake: “We’re delighted to be involved with Henshaws. It’s a truly inspirational charity place and we need more of those in the world.”

Henshaws Yorkshire CEO Caroline Smale added: “It’s tremendous that we’re being approached by more companies who understand the business benefits of embarking on a corporate social responsibility programme.  

“Our supporters extensive activities range from dedicated fundraising events, including us in their newsletters and borrowing our art work which is part of our ‘Henshaws Means Business’ programme.  We can’t thank these organisations enough and welcome enquiries from more companies who would enjoy getting involved and helping to make a difference.” 

For more information on Henshaws Means Business, click here to visit our website, or call 01423 814515.

Pictured above is Hunters managing director Kevin Hollinrake

Nathan, a cross between a retriever and a labrador, is 14 months old and taking part in the Guide Dogs buddy scheme pilot. The 12 month pilot is aiming to set up 20 specially selected “buddy” dogs – dogs that are not going to be used as guide dogs – to provide visually impaired and disabled people with practical experience in caring for a dog. It is anticipated that the pilot will also enable Guide Dogs to find out more about how they can make the most of the dogs they breed to benefit more blind and partially sighted people.

Although Nathan has only been at Henshaws College for a few weeks and is still going through his “induction programme”, he has already made a big impression on staff and students alike. Out of college hours Nathan is cared for by a member of staff at home but  during the college day he has his own timetable and attends sessions with students. When he is not in a session he has a resting place outside the principal’s office.

There are many benefits to both students and staff associated with buddy dogs, many of which support the 5 outcomes of the government initiative, Every Child Matters – be healthy, stay safe, enjoy and achieve, make a positive contribution, and achieve economic well-being. Nathan and the buddy scheme are giving students the opportunity to “try out” a guide dog ,experience the benefits a Guide Dog brings, and providing practical experience for people with a visual impairment and disabilities to develop an understanding of how they would look after a buddy or guide dog. Nathan is also having a very positive therapeutic effect on the students and enhancing their physical and mental wellbeing.

In addition to encouraging communication skills – because he is already a great talking point amongst the students – Nathan is bringing companionship and increasing the students’ enthusiasm and enjoyment of the college experience.

Nathan attends lessons to support students with communication and sensory activities and is used to build their confidence and give them new interest and motivation. He also attends lessons to support students to deal with individual behaviour issues by promoting positive feelings and emotions, and he’s been helping out strengthening students’ independence skills and travel training.

Students are encouraged to walk with Nathan which helps them enjoy the benefits of exercise with more confidence – and staff have found taking Nathan for a walk during breaks can be a great way to de-stress!

Welcome to Henshaws College, Nathan!

Backed by educational advisory service TechDis, the print service will be officially launched at the next Henshaws Means Business breakfast on Friday 25th March.

Kevin Hollinrake, Managing Director of Hunters the estate agents – who ordered the Linda Barker canvasses – is the guest speaker at the event.

A team of Henshaws College students are running the state of the art print service as part of our social enterprise programme, Handmade at Henshaws. This latest milestone will allow us to expand our range of products to include canvasses and prints, large banners, corporate stationery and even conference lanyards. The printer’s introduction also compliments Henshaws Means Business’ other services which help employers to meet their corporate social responsibility targets.

Henshaws Means Business provides visual impairment awareness training, disability etiquette training and advice, along with corporate volunteering opportunities. Other aspects include the conversion of company literature, including menus, signs and employment contracts, into Braille – as well as art commissions.

Work experience is central to the curriculum at the college, where training is provided in a real work environment and students are also able to work at local businesses including cafes, offices and print works.

Said Henshaws Yorkshire CEO Caroline Smale: “Six of our students are running the state-of-the-art print offering as a social enterprise venture, which underpins our ethos of providing students with vocational opportunities and practical experience in a real work environment.

“The service also represents a key and exciting expansion to our Henshaws Means Business menu of services. It's the perfect cross-over: a growing number of local organisations who are committeed to a culture of 'putting something back' into their local communities are enjoying being involved in our vibrant social enterprise programme.”

For more information on Henshaws Menas Business, click here to visit our website, or call 01423 814515

Held on Sunday 18th September, we have been lucky enough to secure places for the half marathon, with an entry fee for participants of only £46.

For a chance of a place, participants are asked to commit to raising £300 in sponsorship (as a minimum – of course we'd be delighted with anything more!)

Entry forms need to be returned by 25th March 2011. Runners who successfully secure a Henshaws spot will then be contacted for the entry fee.

Click here for the entry form.

For further information, please call Hannah Saxon on (01423) 814501 or email  hannah.saxon@henshaws.org.uk

Nathan, a cross between a retriever and a labrador, is 14 months old and taking part in the Guide Dogs buddy scheme pilot. The 12 month pilot is aiming to set up 20 specially selected “buddy” dogs – dogs that are not going to be used as guide dogs – to provide visually impaired and disabled people with practical experience in caring for a dog. It is anticipated that the pilot will also enable Guide Dogs to find out more about how they can make the most of the dogs they breed to benefit more blind and partially sighted people.

Although Nathan has only been at Henshaws College for a few weeks and is still going through his “induction programme”, he has already made a big impression on staff and students alike. Out of college hours Nathan is cared for by a member of staff at home but  during the college day he has his own timetable and attends sessions with students. When he is not in a session he has a resting place outside the principal’s office.

There are many benefits to both students and staff associated with buddy dogs, many of which support the 5 outcomes of the government initiative, Every Child Matters – be healthy, stay safe, enjoy and achieve, make a positive contribution, and achieve economic well-being. Nathan and the buddy scheme are giving students the opportunity to “try out” a guide dog ,experience the benefits a Guide Dog brings, and providing practical experience for people with a visual impairment and disabilities to develop an understanding of how they would look after a buddy or guide dog. Nathan is also having a very positive therapeutic effect on the students and enhancing their physical and mental wellbeing.

In addition to encouraging communication skills – because he is already a great talking point amongst the students – Nathan is bringing companionship and increasing the students’ enthusiasm and enjoyment of the college experience.

Nathan attends lessons to support students with communication and sensory activities and is used to build their confidence and give them new interest and motivation. He also attends lessons to support students to deal with individual behaviour issues by promoting positive feelings and emotions, and he’s been helping out strengthening students’ independence skills and travel training.

Students are encouraged to walk with Nathan which helps them enjoy the benefits of exercise with more confidence – and staff have found taking Nathan for a walk during breaks can be a great way to de-stress!

Welcome to Henshaws College, Nathan!

Check out who we are, what we do, what we offer, a guide to Henshaws College and much more.

Handy Guide to Henshaws College

Henshaws College students are celebrating after earning a impressive 14 medals at the 2010 Special Olympics Regional Swimming Gala.

Teams from as far away as Lincolnshire took part in the event, held at Harrogate Hydro. Of particular note was our “speeding ticket” – awarded to a student for a new personal best time!

In total, we collected 4 Gold medals, 6 Silver medals and 4 Bronze medals.

Congratulations Team Henshaws!

Thanks to John Feven (SOGB Event Photographer Co-ordinator) for the picture

This opportunity is a Yorkshire & Humber one day event “Promoting Independent Learning through Technology”.

Staff will experience an informative and interactive forum for them to understand, experience and share the benefits of using technology to support teaching and learning for learners with learning difficulties and/or disabilities.

The event is supported by Henshaws College, along with The Sheffield College and the Association of Colleges.

For more information about the event and the contents of the day, please click here

To book a place click here (link will open in a new window)

Click here for the PDF article.

Mike Firth urges businesses to take their lead from Henshaws Yorkshire

Henshaws College has been hailed as an example of true inspiration by local business leaders at a special event to mark World Sight Day.

MDs and senior managers from Harrogate, Leeds and York attended a packed networking and information session on October 14 at the Harrogate-based charity which provides services for visually impaired and disabled children and adults.

Mike Firth – CEO and founder of the Yorkshire International Business Convention which has adopted Henshaws Yorkshire as its chosen charity for 2010 and 2011 – presented on the theme of entrepreneurship in the current climate.

Said Mr Firth: “Henshaws is a truly inspirational college with a ‘can do’ attitude which inspires its students with confidence and gives them self respect. I urge businesses to follow Henshaws example and ‘make things happen’ in order to become leaner, fitter and stronger.”

Ian Williams, director of business representation and policy at the Leeds Chamber of Commerce spoke on the negative impact of red tape on business and attendees were given an insight into Henshaws wide-ranging services which include an Arts & Crafts Centre in Knaresborough and community housing in the Harrogate area.

Henshaws student Kenneth Fletcher also provided a heart warming insight into how the College had dramatically improved his confidence and quality of life by providing a safe, supportive and stimulating enviroment.  

Commented Ian Roberts, director of chartered insurance brokers Bartlett in Leeds. “I agree that Henshaws in a prime example of inspiration, particularly in today’s challenging environment. Just hearing how Henshaws has changed Kenneth’s life certainly puts things into perspective.”   

Concluded Principal Caroline Smale: “As charities like ourselves face increasing funding challenges we appreciate the tremendous support from our corporate supporters more than ever. This motivational event gave companies some very relevant messages to take away. Attendees also thoroughly enjoyed a tour after the session and learning at first hand why we are an award-winning College.”  

Photo Caption: Inspiring example: Mike Firth (far left) with Caroline Smale (centre) and attendees at Henshaws Yorkshire World Sight Day corporate event. 

Henshaws Yorkshire alumni relive their school days at reunion

Former pupils and staff of Henshaws School enjoyed a laughter-filled reunion as they celebrated their schooldays in the 1970s. The get-together was organised by former Henshaws PE teacher Thelma Harrison with the help of ex-deputy headmaster John Ellithorne and other teaching staff.

The facility that is now Henshaws College was a secondary school for the visually impaired from its establishment in 1971 until 1985. The pupils who attended the reunion were classmates from the mid to late 1970s who had not met up for over 30 years.

The Henshaws alumni caught up over an action-packed weekend which included learning to play tennis with an adapted ball. Several of the former pupils stayed at the college in order to make the most of the weekend; others, due to other commitments including full-time jobs, joined the group for a day.

Thelma Harrison explained: “We all have happy memories from our days at Henshaws School for the blind, as it used to be called. The former pupils and their teachers had all but lost touch with each other until former pupil Denise Larter asked me if I would try to arrange a reunion.

“It’s been a fantastic experience and many old friendships have been revived. In fact, we are planning to make this an annual event and will be spreading the word to any other former pupils who would like to join us next year!”

The ceremony acknowledged the culmination of three years of education and guidance for 25 students who have learnt valuable life and employment skills, equipping them to make a successful transition to the next stage of their lives.

Andrew Jones, MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, joined Henshaws College principal Caroline Smale to co-present certificates and “transitions passports” which summarise what students have learned.

One graduating student, Vanessa May, explained: “I’ve really enjoyed my time at Henshaws and am much more independent. I’m very proud of learning IT and writing on the computer. I’m moving into supported living in Chesterfield at the end of August after helping my mum to decorate the house.”

Vanessa’s mum Liz added: “Words can’t describe Vanessa’s development over the last three years thanks to Henshaws. It’s been fantastic to see her mature and her interaction and understanding of what she is saying has improved by leaps and bounds.”  

After the ceremony Andrew Jones said: “I’m delighted to be involved in this very special celebration. Henshaws is one of the finest organisations in the area and its record of achievement is truly inspiring. Among my priorities is to champion such organisations in Parliament.”        

Emmerdale’s Kitty McGeever, the first permanently visually impaired character in a British soap opera and recent winner of the Yorkshire Woman of Achievement award, said: “It’s been out of this world – inspiring, encouraging and it’s wonderful to return for my second graduation ceremony and to celebrate the fantastic transformation in the students each year.”  

The packed ceremony was also attended by Cllr Bill Hoult, Mayor of Harrogate, and Mayoress Vanessa Hoult, along with Cllr Richard Hall, Mayor of Knaresborough and Mayoress Rachael Hall.

Said Cllr Hoult: “This was both a moving and uplifting experience.  I’ve been to a few graduations and this was one of the most inspiring to witness how the students overcome challenges, develop the self confidence to be themselves as well as inspiring those around them.”   

Cllr Hall added: “This is my first Henshaws graduation and the ceremony is a dynamic showcase to recognise the hard work of both Henshaws College and the energy and achievements of its students. We’ve really enjoyed sharing the celebrations with students and their families.”

Harrogate’s new MP also presented two of the graduates with special awards. David Connelly received the Maxine Foster award, which recognises the student who ‘most embodies the spirit of enthusiasm for life and living’.  The Joshua Rayner award, which acknowledges a ‘unique and enthusiastic approach to learning’ was given to Mazrab Mohammed. Both awards serve as memorials to their namesakes ­- Maxine was a young tutor working at the college who sadly died in 2006, and Joshua was a second year student who tragically died in October 2008.

Said David: “It’s important to be positive. You don’t know what will happen in life so it’s important to make the most of it. I’m extremely proud of my achievements in areas including athletics, music and walking. Henshaws is a very friendly place and I have lots of happy memories here.

“It’s great that I’m now becoming more independent and moving into a supervised flat. I want to study music and IT at Blackburn College and my goals include taking part in the 2012 Paralympic Games.”  

During the ceremony Howard Cockeram, Chairman of Henshaws Society for Blind People, presented a series of awards achieved by Henshaws College over the last year. They comprise the Regional Support Centre Yorkshire & Humber Evolution Awards, the National Blind Gardener of the Year, the Great British National Care Home Awards and the Special Olypmics    

Caroline Smale concluded: “The graduation is a momentous milestone in our calendar and it’s a privilege to watch the students grow up and mature. We give them many challenges to overcome and they show great courage and determination. They are now equipped for the next stage of their lives and we are immensely proud of their achievements.”

The students who graduated are:

Wayne Appleby                      Gary Bisset                 Lorna Brooksbank

Darren Calvert                        David Connelly           Liam Colligan

Daniel Corrin                           Rebecca Cross          Ruhana Doyle

Stacey Kimberley                   Jamie Lynas               Rebekkah Lynch

David Marshall                        Vanessa May              Tim Milledge

Mazrab Mohammed                Nick Moxon                 Emma Powell

Helen Robinson                      Katie Sayer                 Jessica Shepherd

Gemma Tapsfield                   Adam Taylor               Lindsey Trendel

Luke Wanklyn

Christina Dobson was nominated for the award by Liz Sugden, head of student support and residential services at Henshaws College. She was recognised for her role in supporting college students, all of whom have visual impairments and other disabilities, and helping them to learn to live independently.

After winning the regional awards, Christina faced a panel of judges, who said she was an inspiration to the care sector and that they were blown away by her enthusiasm. She was finally presented with her national award in June by former GMTV presenter Fiona Phillips.

Christina said: “My role as house manager is to oversee the running of three of the residential houses on campus, this means I am responsible for the care and well being of thirty seven young people, with a varied range of abilities’’

“I really love my job; it is such a pleasure to create a welcoming and homely environment for our students, as well as helping them gain their independence. Winning the regional award was amazing, so to go on to succeed in the national category was a wonderful moment!”

Caroline Smale, principal at Henshaws College, said: “We are so proud of what Christina has achieved, to gain national recognition for her work shows just what an excellent job she does. She epitomises the best possible attitude, and always approaches every day with enthusiasm and a smile. Many congratulations from everyone at the college.”

Launched in 2009, ‘Henshaws Means Business’ offers professional consultancy and training to help companies of all sizes to comply with discrimination laws.

The programme gives employers the skills and confidence when hiring workers with disabilities and enables them to understand how to support visually impaired and disabled staff.

Additional initiatives include corporate volunteering opportunities and art loan to brighten up the workplace. Also available are environmentally friendly delegate bags for conferences and beautiful greetings cards – all of which are hand crafted by Henshaws students and art makers.    

Henshaws Means Business undertakes activities which include converting company literature, including menus, signs and even employment contracts into Braille – a legal requirement in some cases.

At the recent event David Williams, general manager of Blue Line Taxis, explained how they will be working with Henshaws to accommodate customers with visual impairment, learning difficulties and other disabilities.

Said Mr Williams: “We operate a number of Mercedes Eurocabs which have been custom built to transport wheelchairs of all sizes for Henshaws students. We are proud to have been associated with Henshaws for over two decades and wholeheartedly support the Henshaws Means Business programme.”  

Business people who attended were shown how the College service could help them to comply with the Disability Discrimination Act, Disability Etiquette and Visual Impairment Awareness Training (VIAT).

For more information, or to book a place at the next breakfast seminar please contact Liz Connall on 01423 886451 or email liz.connall@henshaws.ac.uk

 The college was commended by Ofsted as promoting a strong culture of continuous improvement and promotion of excellence, and achieved the highest grade of ‘significant progress’ across all five inspection themes.

The college’s high level of learner achievement was particularly praised, in addition to the vocational curriculum offered in practical environments of hospitality, retail and admin, horticulture, media, and arts and crafts. The inspectors visited the café and shop at the Arts & Crafts Centre in Knaresborough to observe the students in training.

In addition to this success, Henshaws College was nominated in five of the eight categories at the Yorkshire and Humber Further Education IT Evolution Awards.  Senior curriculum manager Christine Sherman won the Regional Leadership Award and the ICT curriculum team scooped the Innovative Practice Award. Tutor Paul Scott was also a finalist in three categories.

The college is widely recognised for maximising technology to boost student achievement. It has invested in a range of mobile technology – including digital voice recorders, cameras and video cameras – as well as high tech tools for the kitchen, specialist music equipment and multimedia white boards for teaching areas.  At present, the college is focusing efforts on fundraising to secure state-of-the-art technology for an innovative media centre, which will further enhance students’ skills.

College principal Caroline Smale said: “Henshaws College is delighted to have got 2010 off to such a magnificent start. It is wonderful to have had an excellent report from Ofsted: it is extremely satisfying to confirm that we are providing the best learning environment for our students.

“Receiving two IT Evolution Awards and five nominations is the icing on the cake, and congratulations must go to all the hard working staff who thoroughly deserve this success. The college is committed to the innovative use of technology because it enables our students to gain independence and employability skills, and prepare them for their future lives. This is particularly important in helping to overcome the challenges posed by visual impairment and additional physical disabilities and learning difficulties.”

The Evolution Awards were created to recognise regional success with e-learning. Nominations come from across the higher education, further education and skills sectors, recognising those individuals or teams using technology for the benefit of learners.