I spent a delightful morning with the Key Stage 2 pupils at Woodcote Primary School—and what a thoughtful, articulate, and curious group they are. The visit began with a whole-Key Stage assembly, during which I was peppered with incisive questions from pupils right across the year groups. Everything from “Why do you carry a sword?”…
Earlier tonight, I had the great pleasure of attending one of the most uplifting events in Oxfordshire’s calendar – the High Sheriff Young Engineer Awards, now in their thirteenth year. Held at Abingdon and Witney College, and made possible through the generous sponsorship of Lucy Group, The Engineering Trust, and the College itself, the awards…
I’m indebted to the 7th Bicester Scouts who welcomed me so warmly to their meeting last night. It was a real pleasure to be grilled (gently!) by such an inquisitive and thoughtful group of young people. They asked incisive questions about the role of the High Sheriff—what I do, why the role exists, and what…
This morning, we came together at Thames Valley Police Headquarters in Kidlington, kindly hosted by Matthew Barber, Police and Crime Commissioner, and his office, for another in our series of Breakfast Conversations—gatherings focused on hearing the young unheard. Bringing together an extraordinary mix of voices—from policing, education, youth work, local government, and the voluntary sector—we…
This morning, I had the privilege of joining a Teams call with three inspiring colleagues from Oxfordshire County Council: Elena, Roz, and Rosie. The conversation was energising – a window into some of the most thoughtful, practical work I’ve seen when it comes to engaging young people in the decisions that will shape the world…
Earlier this week, I was fortunate to spend the morning at the Oxford Combined Court Centre, sitting alongside a visiting High Court Judge. As High Sheriff of Oxfordshire, I hold a traditional role in supporting the judiciary—but this visit offered something much more immediate: the chance to observe the justice system in action from a…
It was a rather soggy Oxford Pride this year — but no amount of drizzle could dampen the spirit of the day. From the moment we stepped off from the top of Paradise Street, the sense of joy, solidarity, and celebration was unmistakable. I was proud to walk alongside colleagues from Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue…
This morning, the latest in our series of Breakfast Conversations took place in Blackbird Leys—a vibrant, diverse community with a rich history and a passionate group of professionals committed to the wellbeing of its young people. Gathered around the table were representatives from youth work, education, local government, the voluntary sector, and grassroots initiatives—all united…
I’ve just been reading a thoughtful post from my dear friend Dan Wood – a beautiful and quietly powerful reminder of why Pride is still necessary. Not as a corporate logo change or a party in the park (though there’s joy in both), but as something deeper: a moment of protest, visibility, and solidarity. This…
Dear friends, As May draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on a month that has brought moments of profound sorrow, stirring celebration, and powerful conversations. Each week has deepened my conviction that community lies at the heart of public service. And that young people, so often on the periphery of our decisions, must…
