Thriving Recognition at RHS Wisley
We’re delighted to share that Hale Community and Youth Centre Gardeners have been recognised once again by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and South & South East in Bloom - receiving a Level 4 “Thriving” Award at the 2026 It’s Your Neighbourhood presentation held at RHS Wisley, Guildford.
A Celebration of Local Pride
The presentation at RHS Wisley brought together groups from across the region, each showcasing how local action can make a lasting difference. For Hale Community and Youth Centre, the recognition reflects not only the beauty of the gardens but also the spirit of collaboration that underpins all our projects - from planting days and seasonal displays to educational workshops and community events.
Growing Together
Our gardening team’s success is rooted in shared effort and enthusiasm. Every plant, border, and raised bed tells a story of people coming together to learn, laugh, and nurture their surroundings. The “Thriving” level acknowledges that our gardens are flourishing - and so is our community.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate this achievement, we’re already planning for the next season: new planting schemes, wildlife‑friendly initiatives, and opportunities for more residents to get involved. Hale Community Centre Gardeners continue to prove that when people work side by side, growth happens in every sense.
Congratulations to everyone involved - your hard work has truly made Hale bloom!
Got unwanted household items, garden waste, or DIY clutter piling up? We’re excited to announce the Big Clear Up at Sandy Hill, brought to you by Hale Community and Youth Centre in partnership with VIVID, VIVID Plus+, and Collard!
This is a free service exclusively for residents of Sandy Hill to help you declutter your home and keep our community clean, tidy, and green.
📅 Event Details
- Date: Wednesday, 9th September
- Time: 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM
- Location: Skip locations across Sandy Hill will be sent out to registered participants the day before the event.
⚠️Important Notice: Prior booking is required! Skips are available on a first-come, first-served basis for pre-booked residents.
📦 What You Can & Cannot Throw Away
✅ ACCEPTED ITEMS: Paper & Cardboard; Wood & Timber; Metal; Plastics; Glass; Rubble / Soil; Garden Waste
❌ NOT ACCEPTED (Strictly Prohibited): Batteries of any kind; Pressure vessels or aerosols (including gas bottles); Clinical waste; Fluorescent tubes; Food waste; Hazardous materials (including asbestos); Liquids of any kind; Paint tins/cans; Animal waste.
🚛 Need Help with Larger Items or Assistance?
- White Goods & Large Items: If you have large bulky items or white goods (like fridges, washing machines, etc.), please still complete the booking form. A member of the team will be in touch with you directly to coordinate.
- Extra Assistance Needed? If you require assistance moving items or accessing the skips on the day, please make sure to note this on your booking form so we can support you.
📲 How to Book Your Space
Spaces are limited, so don't delay!
- Scan the QR code on the flyer or click the link below to access the online booking form.
- Fill out your details and let us know if you need assistance or have bulky items/white goods.
- Keep an eye out the day before the event for details on exact skip locations!
👉 [Click here for the Booking Form Link]
Let's work together to keep Sandy Hill clean and bright! For any questions, feel free to contact the Hale Community & Youth Centre team.
We are delighted to introduce one of our newer trustees, Maria Dawes, who joined the Hale Community & Youth Centre board at the start of the year - and who has already brought tremendous insight, energy and expertise to our work.
This month, Maria received national recognition for her outstanding contribution to education, having been awarded an OBE in the King’s Birthday Honours. It’s a remarkable achievement and one that reflects her long‑standing commitment to improving outcomes for children, schools and communities.
A leader in education
Maria is best known locally and nationally for founding and leading Schools Alliance for Excellence (SAfE), a Surrey‑based not‑for‑profit organisation dedicated to strengthening education through collaboration. Under her leadership, SAfE worked closely with Surrey County Council and partners across the sector to support school improvement, professional development and system‑wide innovation. Her work has helped shape a more connected, supportive and ambitious education landscape - one where teachers and leaders are empowered to deliver the very best for children.
Why we’re so proud to have her on our board
Maria brings deep experience in: strategic leadership; partnership working; governance and organisational development and supporting children, families and communities
Her values align closely with the Centre: collaboration, inclusion, and a belief that strong community spaces can transform lives. As we continue to grow the Centre’s programmes, strengthen our governance, and expand opportunities for local families and young people, Maria’s expertise will be invaluable.
A well-deserved honour
Maria’s OBE is a testament to years of dedication to education and public service. We are thrilled to see her contribution recognised at the highest level - and even more thrilled that she has chosen to share her skills and passion with our community.
Please join us in congratulating Maria on this exceptional achievement. We look forward to the impact we will make together in the months and years ahead.
To read the full article in this week's Farnham Herald - 25th June - click HERE.