Parkside opens its doors: a celebration of growth and possibility
Recently we celebrated a milestone that has been years in the making - the official opening of Parkside, our new building in Nuneaton. What began as a small satellite site with just six students has grown into something we are incredibly proud of, and the opening event really captured how special this moment is for our community.
A day of support and celebration
We were honoured to welcome The Worshipful The Mayor of Nuneaton and Bedworth, Councill
or Bhim Saru, along with our trustees, Natspec CEO Clare Howard OBE, team members from Warwickshire Supported Employment Service, Company Image Commercial Interiors Ltd and many other community friends and supporters of the college.
Their presence reminded us just how many people believe in the work we do and in the potential of our students.
Conversations that inspire
During the event, students joined a Q&A panel hosted by our Principal, Tracey Forman. They had the chance to put their own questions to Mr Mayor, Julia Ward (Chair of Trustees) and Clare Howard.
The discussion covered leadership, local plans and hopes for the future – and it was wonderful to see students so confident and engaged in a conversation with senior leaders from across the sector and community.
Corey’s moment to shine
One of the standout moments of the day belonged to Corey, one of our students, who delivered an honest and uplifting speech about his journey at Homefield and the difference specialist education has made to him. His words were powerful, heartfelt and a reminder of why spaces like Parkside matter.
And Corey didn’t stop there – he also helped lead tours of the new building and joined in the ribbon-cutting. He represented our students brilliantly and made everyone incredibly proud.
How far we’ve come
Parkside marks an exciting step forward, but it’s also the latest chapter in a journey that’s been growing for years:
- In 2019, we opened a tiny satellite site for six students in a two-up, two-down house.
- By 2022, we’d moved to Cross Street as more families sought specialist education locally.
- Today, we’re supporting 32 students in a purpose-built environment designed to help them thrive.
Seeing everyone gathered at Parkside for the opening really brought home just how far we’ve come.
Looking ahead with hope
More than anything, the opening reminded us of our shared vision: a community where autistic young people and those who have learning and communication disabilities are truly valued – not just included, but recognised as contributors to their communities.
Parkside gives us room to keep growing that vision. It opens the door to more partnerships, more opportunities and more moments like the ones we shared on opening day.
A huge thank you to everyone who joined us and everyone who has supported this journey.
