Henshaws has announced Paul Donkersloot as the new Director of its Specialist College in Harrogate.
Paul is already a familiar and trusted presence at the College, having initially joined Henshaws as a Consultant College Director in January.
Commenting on his formal appointment, Paul said:
“I’m thrilled to be taking on the role of College Director. Having already seen the College’s immense potential I am excited to use my wealth of experience in the specialist education sector to take it to the next level.
“I am very much looking forward to meeting parents and carers during visits to Henshaws in the coming months and will also be attending this year’s Graduation event.”
Throughout his career, Paul has led a range of specialist settings across England and Wales, supporting young people with Speech, Language and Communication Needs, Autism, Social Emotional and Mental Health challenges, Physical Disabilities, Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties, and associated sensory needs.
He has also successfully supported the turnaround of large schools and the launch of new specialist provision.
Paul was the founding CEO of Norfolk’s first mixed economy Multi Academy Trust and has played a key role on national and regional committees influencing policy in Special Educational Needs and Disability.
Paul is bringing his extensive experience from across the specialist education sector to the role. He is also known for his commitment to developing others, with many former colleagues now in senior roles in the UK and beyond.
Henshaws’ Chief Executive, Sally Daniels said:
“Over the last six months Paul’s calm and thoughtful approach, combined with a deep understanding of complex needs and a strong track record of inclusive leadership, has brought valuable consistency to our work with students, families and staff.
“At the heart of all his work is a strong belief in inclusion, and a drive to ensure that every young person is supported to achieve their potential.
“His formal appointment brings long-term stability and clear direction to the College. We are confident this will help us continue to grow and strengthen the provision we offer, and to build positively on the year ahead.
“We look forward to welcoming students back in September and continuing to work together to support their learning, development and wellbeing.”
Henshaws Specialist College in Harrogate, offers day and residential places for young adults aged 16 to 25 with special educational needs and disabilities. Its residential offer means young people from across England can attend.
Every student has a personalised curriculum and can be involved in bespoke programmes that incorporate a number of different activities, ranging from living skills and work experience, to art, music, sensory exploration and Forest School.
In addition, the College provides a 52week respite service and a post education Partnerships Programme to support the needs of young people at different points in their journey.
Whether preparing for employment, building confidence, making friends or learning to live more independently, the College works with students to make their aspirations possible and goals a reality.
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