Specialist College
Henshaws Specialist College Shortlisted for the Communication Matters AAC Awards 2025
Posted Dec 2025
Henshaws Specialist College has officially appointed Paul Donkersloot as its new College Director. This follows his interim role as Consultant College Director, which began in January 2025.
The Henshaws Specialist College Director appointment brings long-term stability and clear leadership to the College. Paul has already made a strong impact over the past few months.
A leader with SEND expertise
Paul Donkersloot brings extensive experience in the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) sector. His background includes leadership of specialist schools across England and Wales, supporting young people with:
- Speech, Language and Communication Needs
- Autism
- Social, Emotional and Mental Health challenges (SEMH)
- Physical Disabilities
- Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD)
- Sensory needs
He has led the turnaround of large schools and launched new specialist education provision. Paul also served as the founding CEO of Norfolk’s first mixed economy Multi Academy Trust and has contributed to national SEND policy through his work with regional and national committees.
A clear vision for inclusive education
At the centre of Paul’s approach is a belief in inclusive education and in enabling every young person to reach their potential. He is also known for developing the skills of education professionals, with many of his former colleagues now in senior roles.
His appointment as College Director brings stability, clarity and long-term strategic direction to Henshaws Specialist College. The College team is confident that this leadership will support continued improvements to its offer and outcomes.
Looking ahead to September
As part of the Henshaws Specialist College Director appointment, Paul will lead the College into the new academic year. He will be attending this year’s Graduation event and looks forward to meeting more students, families and partners in the coming months.
This appointment marks an exciting new chapter in the College’s development and reinforces Henshaws’ commitment to high-quality, inclusive specialist education in the North of England.
For more information about Henshaws Specialist College and our work supporting young people with visual impairments and complex needs, please contact us or visit our College page.
