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Weekly Update

College News

July 30, 2026

Welcome to our weekly update.

There’s lots to celebrate in this week’s update! Our featured article shines a spotlight on Paul, Calderdale’s first dedicated Recovery Coach, whose journey from learner to colleague is a wonderful example of the impact of the College community. You’ll also find details of our upcoming courses and a range of local events, organisations and summer activities to help you stay connected, inspired and involved.

Featured Article:

Hello, I’m Paul Newsham, and I’m proud to have joined Calderdale & Kirklees Recovery & Wellbeing College as Calderdale’s first dedicated Recovery Coach.

Yorkshire has always been home. I grew up here and, after leaving for university and work opportunities elsewhere in the country, returned to West Yorkshire in 2007. I’ve lived in Calderdale for the past fifteen years and supporting people here and in Kirklees is something I care deeply about.

Before joining the College, I worked in all sorts of roles including video game programming, insurance investigation, proofreading and board game development. I studied Artificial Intelligence at university and later started teacher training, where I discovered how much I enjoy helping people build their confidence and skills.

My own journey with the College began in April 2025 when I enrolled as a learner following an ADHD diagnosis. Experiencing the College from a learner’s perspective helped me appreciate the power of shared learning, understanding and connection.

I soon became keen to volunteer, joining the Editorial Group and then co-facilitating sessions.

As a Recovery Coach, I’ll be developing and delivering courses, supporting learners and my colleagues, and focusing on how we can help people with disordered eating.

I’m particularly excited about expanding opportunities in Calderdale and strengthening links with local organisations so that more people can discover what the College has to offer.

Having experienced the College myself, I know how powerful it can be when people come together to learn from one another in a safe, inclusive and hopeful environment. Recovery is about recognising strengths, discovering new possibilities and finding support along the way. I look forward to meeting learners across Calderdale and Kirklees and helping create opportunities for people to build confidence, connect with others and move towards the life they want to live.

Spaces on courses – book now to avoid disappointment:-

See our Autumn programme for next half term, so if you’re thinking about what to try next, now’s a great time to plan ahead. Just click on the timetable icon to see what’s coming up.

Click the links to find out more: