A specialist school and college has celebrated 75 years of care, education and impact with its biggest summer festival to date.
The Sheiling Ringwood, based on a 45-acre woodland campus near Ringwood and supporting children and young people with special educational needs, marked its 75th anniversary throughout the year, concluding with a summer festival on June 20.
The school was founded in 1951 and offers a holistic approach combining education, residential care, and therapy in a calm and nurturing environment.
Corine van Barneveld, principal of The Sheiling Ringwood, said: "For 75 years, the Sheiling has been guided by the belief that every young person deserves to be valued and supported in a way that reflects who they are.
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"That commitment continues to this day and underpins the organisation."
This year’s summer festival was the largest the school has ever organised, raising £13,175 to help fund new gym equipment for students.
Visitors enjoyed live music, food, attractions, games, and stalls, with entry by donation and parking included.
The Sheiling Ringwood extends its heartfelt thanks to all sponsors, supporters, students, their families and its staff whose generosity and enthusiasm made the celebration such a resounding success, highlighting the ongoing strength and spirit of the community as it looks ahead to the future.
Ms van Barneveld said: "The Sheiling Ringwood’s approach has been consistently recognised by Ofsted including in recent inspections where we were praised for the positive relationships between staff and students, the dedication of staff teams and the calm, structured environment that helps students feel safe and supported across education and care.
"In this way, young people learn and achieve essential skills which prepares them for a fulfilling adult life."
The school and college focus on relationships, consistency and understanding each young person as an individual with potential.
Recent investment has supported the opening of a new purpose-built double classroom at the school last year, and another specialist double classroom is set to open in September for college students.
Ms van Barneveld said: "Our focus remains very clear—to enable young people with complex needs to live, learn and grow with confidence and opportunity."
The Sheiling Ringwood looks forward to continuing its legacy of care and education long into the future.
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