ADCS President, Andy Smith, made his inaugural speech at a reception on 16 April in London.
Directors of children’s services, elected politicians, senior officials, and guests, welcome to 30 Euston Square. It’s great to have so many of you here today as we once again, embark on a new ADCS Presidential year. Every year we reflect on how quickly they come around, but they really do. Thank you for taking the time out of your day to mark the occasion, looking around at the distinguished people in the room shows just how much importance we place on our Association and how valued it is amongst colleagues as we collectively work together to make a difference for all children and families.
Before I start to look ahead to what promises to be a lively and interesting 12 months, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on the last 12 months. The role of ADCS Vice President is an apprenticeship of sorts and it starts with an induction into what’s colloquially known as the ‘presidential trio’, a three-year relationship where you get to spend 12 months watching and learning from your predecessors, the President and Immediate Past President.