Redbridge High School’s New Sunshine Coach Thanks to Arete Foundation

Redbridge High School’s new coach was generously funded by Arete Foundation, a corporate foundation that provides funding and support to charitable organisations. They partner with a small number of charities every year to help them develop their operations. The foundation’s aim is to create a long-lasting chain-reaction of positive impact in the North West region by supporting charities that help young people fulfil their potential.

The funding of the coach was also supported by money pledged at the 2022 Variety Club Showbusiness Awards. Julia Morley kindly funded a couple of seats at the event and this money, along with the generosity from Arete Foundation, made Redbridge High School’s dream of having a new Sunshine Coach come true.

The school’s aim is to provide outstanding educational provision that will also encompass the holistic needs of pupils, aged 11 – 19 with severe learning difficulties, profound and multiple learning disabilities, and any additional needs particularly ASD. They deliver this through a flexible skilled workforce in an inclusive caring environment that has pupils at its centre, whilst providing an attractive and welcoming environment.

The new Sunshine Coach facilitates some of the most important areas of the curriculum, including communication skills, independence in the community, and life skills. The school gives every class group a weekly community outing to support these skills and a Sunshine Coach enables this to happen.

The presentation took place at the school on Monday 15th July with Mike Anslow (on behalf of Arete Foundation) and Lyn Staunton (on behalf of Variety) attending. Mandy Hesketh, head teacher at Redbridge High said:

On behalf of our school community, I extend heartfelt thanks to the Variety, the Children’s Charity and the Arete Foundation for their invaluable support in raising funds for our pupils with severe and complex needs. With your generous contributions, we are empowering our students to achieve greater independence within our community and fostering a deeper knowledge of the world. Your support helps us bring our curriculum to life through trips and visits that are meaningful, real-world experiences that anchor their learning every week.

We are so grateful for the impact your generosity has on our pupils as we strive to offer them the same opportunities as their mainstream peers. Your contributions enable us to prepare them for adulthood through activities such as vocational training, participation in the Duke of Edinburgh program and providing access to enriching residential holidays. The coach, made possible by your support, plays a pivotal role in facilitating these transformative experiences for our pupils.

Thank you for making a tangible difference in the lives of our students and helping us build a brighter future together.”

Mike Anslow Head of Operations and Risk at Arete Capital Partners, said:

The Arete Foundation are very proud to donate this Variety Sunshine Coach that will change the lives of so many disabled and disadvantaged children, all who will have the most amazing experiences and days out for many years to come.