Henshaws to show 'amazing things' happening at its Harrogate College

There may be deep uncertainty over the future of Henshaws Arts & Crafts Centre in Knaresborough after staff and 'art makers' at this much-loved facility at Bond End were told it would be staying closed for the forseeable future for financial reasons but Henshaws College itself has remained open throughout lockdown.

But COVID-19 has meant that the college, on Bogs Lane, which supports people living with sight loss and a range of other disabilities, has had to close its doors to visitors since March.

As result, students hoping or planning to join in September and their families have not yet been able to visit, see the facilities for themselves or meet the team.

Principal Adrian Sugden said: “We hope to give families an insight into all the amazing things happening at Henshaws College, and we’d welcome young people and their families, as well as teachers and SEND coordinators who would like to find out more.

We deliver transformational and sustainable life changing experiences and learning through bespoke education, care, therapy and clinical programmes for young people ages 16 to 25 with special educational needs and disabilities.

This week's virtual tour is another sign that the troubled northern-based charity is committed to the college which is is the only further education college in Yorkshire that offers both day and residential programmes up to 365 days per year for students with special educational needs and disabilities.

The college is offering a “virtual” tour tomorrow, Tuesday July 28 when families will be able to:

Watch videos to find out more about the college

Attend a live Q&A with Henshaws College Principal Adrian Sugden

Take a look round college facilities in a virtual tour gallery

Browse the latest prospectus

Keep in touch with the team afterwards to find out more

Principal Adrian Sugden said: “Being familiar with a setting is often very important to our students and, when they join us, we aim for them to be comfortable both with the buildings and the staff which is something which we can usually achieve through visits.

“However, to ensure everyone is safe during this period we have developed a virtual tour to let them see where they might be and who they might meet so that they and their families can make the best decision.”

Henshaws College: Aims

Through a personalised approach to education, learning and care, it seeks to empower 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 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.

Anyone interested in taking part in the virtual tour of Henshaws College should visit https://www.henshaws.org.uk/shop/event/regions/yorkshire/harrogate/virtual-tour-henshaws-specialist-college/ to register.

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