This year, The Sheiling Ringwood celebrates 75 years of educating and caring for children and young people with special educational needs and this is a milestone we are incredibly proud of.

We have spent more than seven decades providing specialist education, residential care and tailored therapy in a calm and nurturing environment. Our school and college are built around strong relationships, consistency, community and truly understanding every young person as an individual who has true potential.

Corine van Barneveld, Principal of The Sheiling Ringwood, says this anniversary is a chance to reflect on a rich and diverse history and the ethos and values that have shaped the organisation since its beginnings.

“For 75 years, the Sheiling has been guided by the belief that every young person deserves to be known, valued and supported in a way that reflects who they are. That commitment continues to this day and underpins everything we do.”

Our 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 our teams and the calm, structured environment that helps students feel safe and supported across education and care, providing opportunities for 24/7 learning.

Although we are proud to celebrate our history, we continue to look forward. Recent developments reflect ongoing investment and progress, including the opening of two new purpose‑built school classrooms last year. This September, we will also open a new specialist double classroom for college, enhancing provision for older students and supporting life skills, independence and transition into adulthood.

As Corine adds: “Our focus remains clear - to enable young people with complex needs to live, learn and grow with confidence and opportunity.”

Our 75th anniversary will be marked by a number of different events throughout this year, recognising our journey since 1951 while also looking ahead to the future, culminating in our annual Summer Festival on Saturday 20th June, from 11:30am to 4:00pm. The festival will welcome students, staff and co-workers past and present, their friends and families and will also be open to the public who are always very supportive of this event. The festival will feature live music throughout the day, fabulous food, attractions, games and stalls. Entry is by donation, onsite parking is included and the day promises to be our biggest Summer Festival yet where we will be raising funds for student gym equipment.

May 2026