The Glaziers’ Hall played host to the latest iteration of
The Treloar Talks, a series of events to showcase the work of this remarkable
educational establishment in Alton, Hampshire. After the recent Lord Mayor’s
visit in March (see Blog No 103) I wanted to find out more so I joined 70 or so
other guests down by the River Thames.
After a short drinks reception the host for the evening,
broadcaster Alastair Stewart OBE, took to the stage. Stewart is a Patron and
long-standing supporter of Treloars and his task was to link the five amazing
speakers present. He wasted no time in introducing the newly appointed CEO
Jessica Taplin. In an interview-style setting Jessica spoke about her earlier
career and her vision for Treloars and some of the practical steps she will be
taking to further improve the care provision for students.
She was followed by another interview with Alex Taylor, a
BBC News journalist and freelance writer. Himself a former student at Treloars,
Alex spoke eloquently about the transition into adult life and the working world.
He has a very fine sense of humour and gave Stewart a run for his money!
Next up was the Rev Mark Birch, former Chaplin at Treloars
and now a Minor Cannon at Westminster Abbey. In an inspirational speech he set
out his thoughts as to what it meant to be truly human and the responsibilities
we all have to free the human spirit.
We then had a video link-up with David Smith MBE, Paralympic
champion in Bocca who described his athletic life during and after his time at Treloars.
He also focused on his independence (and that of his wife), using skills taught
whilst a student. He is a real force of nature.
Finally, we had a parent’s perspective and Anne Edwards gave
a very compelling account of her son’s journey through Treloars and his now
full and busy life. A remarkably candid story and she didn’t pull any punches.
Stewart then brought the whole evening together and one left
with a real sense of excitement and hope for a such a special organisation. In
the words of its founder Sir William Treloar, “Everyone can help and I ask everyone to do so”.
Picture shows (from
left to right) Alastair Stewart, Jessica Taplin, Alex Taylor, Rev Mark
Birch and Anne Edwards.
No comments:
Post a Comment