East Kent Colleges Group Governor Praises Powerful Impact of Think Differently Programme
Ella Sandall, Governor, East Kent Colleges Group
A Governor of East Kent Colleges Group has praised the powerful impact of the Think Differently youth education programme following a recent session delivered within the college.
The award-winning Think Differently programme, delivered by Kenward Trust, provides honest, evidence-based education to young people about the risks and consequences of drug and alcohol misuse. Through real-life testimony and lived experience, the programme supports students in making informed and safer life choices.
Speaking after attending the session, Ella Sandall said:
“Some messages stay with you long after you’ve left the room.
Experiencing Think Differently firsthand was incredibly powerful. Andy immediately captures the attention of the room with his lived experience. He doesn’t lecture, he connects. You can see students listening differently.
Then Kim shares her story as a mum who lost her son to drugs. The room falls completely silent. You could hear a pin drop. It is raw, honest and deeply moving, not designed to shock, but to make young people truly think about the ripple effect of one decision.
As a Governor and as a mum, I feel strongly that programmes like Think Differently should be welcomed into every college and every school. Young people need real conversations delivered with compassion and credibility.”
The unique dynamic between speakers, combining personal recovery experience with the perspective of a bereaved parent, creates a powerful and reflective learning environment for students. The programme encourages open discussion while reinforcing the real-world consequences of substance misuse.
Kenward Trust, CEO, Penny Williams
Penny Williams, CEO Kenward Trust said: “I am so proud of our Think Differently programme which is delivered in schools and colleges throughout Kent and and we are keen to continue to expand its reach, in response to the growing concerns around substance misuse.”
Schools, colleges and organisations interested in learning more about the programme can visit: