Henshaws College wins praise for its Covid safety measures in Harrogate

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Henshaws Specialist College on Bogs Lane in Harrogate was inspected by James Tapster of the NHS’s Deep Cleaning and Advisory Service who described the college’s protocols, procedures and management of the pandemic as “second to none”.

College Principal Adrian Sugden said the praise was testament to the fantastic work of the whole college team.

The college, which works with students aged from 16 to 25 with special education needs and disabilities, has been able to remain open for some students throughout all three lockdowns.

In an email to the college, which empowers children and young people living with a disability to progress and live life the way they want, Mr Tapster said: “Firstly, let me congratulate you on what a fantastic school, building and set up you have here.

"I have visited many schools in recent months, however your protocols, procedures and management of the pandemic is genuinely second to none! It is very clear in every aspect how much time you and your team have dedicated to achieving such a brilliant result in having Henshaws ‘Covid Secure’.”

Mr Tapster said that everything was, in his view, impressive and well executed, including lateral flow test arrangements, cleanliness, including disinfecting, social distancing, PPE stations, risk assessments and Henshaws’ own track and trace system.

Adrian Sugden said: “Lockdown has been even harder for our students and their families than for most and I am immensely proud that we have been able to remain open under very challenging circumstances to help ease that burden while safeguarding our students and staff.”

What Henshaws Specialist College in Harrogate does

Henshaws Specialist College is a transformational place. Through its personalised approach to education, learning and care it empowers children and young people living with a disability to progress and live life the way they want.

Whether preparing for employment, making friends or learning to live more independently, it enables its students to make their aspirations possible and goals a reality.

Students follow an individual study programme to develop their independence, communication, personal and social skills.

Henshaws welcomes both residential and day students.

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