David Lewis received a special visit from its Patron today (Thursday, 28th November) Her Royal Highness (HRH) The Duchess of Edinburgh, on a day that marked a significant milestones for the charity.
As part of her visit, the Duchess officially opened a new college building to provide education for young people with special educational needs aged 19 upwards to empower them to reach their full potential and strive towards their aspirations.
In addition to the opening of the new building, The Duchess of Edinburgh took the opportunity to help celebrate David Lewis's 120th birthday as a charity this year by cutting a celebratory cake. During her visit Her Royal Highness met with a number of key partners of the charity to hear how they support the work of the charity and to thank them for what they do.
David Lewis is one of the largest care and specialist education providers in Cheshire, offering a comprehensive range of services such as education, residential care, clinical support, and therapeutic interventions for individuals with learning disabilities, epilepsy, autism, and other complex support needs.
Tricia Kalloo, Chair of Trustees at David Lewis, said, "It was a great honour to have our Patron HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh, with us today. Her ongoing support for our charity is something we really appreciate"
John Heritage, Chief Executive of David Lewis, remarked, "I was delighted to welcome Her Royal Highness back to David Lewis during what is a very special year for David Lewis – our 120th birthday year.
"I am hugely grateful to The Broome Family Charitable Trust and the Garfield Weston Foundation for their support to help make our ambition to expand our college a reality so we can help more learners to achieve their ambitions and realise their potential"
Angie Fisher, the Director of Education, said, "Here at David Lewis College we are dedicated to empowering young people between the ages of 19 and 25 to learn the skills they need to take their next steps into adult life. Building their confidence, nurturing their talents and interests, planning for the future, and facilitating employment opportunities. Our Individualised study programmes focus on the development of efficient, effective communication and skills for increased independence, self-advocacy and work and ultimately enabling them to achieve their aspirations and dreams for the future."
