Our Culture and Values
The Thrive Hub Bromsgrove is a social, fun and safe space to make friends, try new things and thrive at your own pace.
Our values guide everything we do:
· Inclusion – Everyone is welcome and supported.
· Growth – Building confidence, skills and independence.
· Wellbeing – Promoting activity, creativity and connection.
· Community – Working together and celebrating success.
Simon Connell
Highly experienced teacher with over 20 years’ experience working with young adults across a variety of school settings including specialist SEND departments. Passionate about helping every student thrive academically, personally and socially through a supportive, inclusive and engaging approach. Combines a deep love of nature with a commitment to physical education, wellbeing and personal growth.
Holds a degree in Sports Studies and Physical Education and a PGCE in Physical Education from the University of Worcester and brings extensive expertise in coaching, sport, outdoor learning and mentoring young people to reach their full potential. Fully qualified as a Designated Safeguarding Lead (Level 3) and First Aid trained, ensuring the highest standards of safety and pastoral care.
Sammy Connell
Sammy is a highly experienced events and operations professional with over 20 years’ experience in event management, health and safety compliance and pet therapy delivery. She holds an Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) and has been a Pet Therapist for a number of years.
With a strong background in leading inclusive programmes and award winning events, Sammy specialises in creating safe and welcoming environments where young adults can develop confidence, independence and social skills.
Sammy is DBS checked and trained in risk assessment planning, ensuring that all activities from community sessions to enrichment days out are delivered safely and responsibly.
Lydia Johnson
With over 13 years of experience as an English Teacher, Lydia brings a rare blend of deep professional expertise and genuine human compassion to her work. She has built her career across secondary schools and sixth forms, holding roles in teaching, middle leadership and management, with a strong specialism in pastoral care, behaviour support, SEND, safeguarding, curriculum and resource development.
Her approach is rooted in understanding, dignity and empowerment, helping individuals and families feel heard, supported and confident in the steps ahead.
Fully up to date with the latest safeguarding training and qualifications, Lydia provides a safe, professional and nurturing environment for those she works with. Known for her warmth, calm presence and natural ability to connect, she places family at the heart of everything she does and is deeply committed to supporting both young people and adults to thrive.
Lottie Connell
Lottie Connell is a miniature smooth haired black and tan KC-registered dachshund with a heart as big as her personality. For over two years, she has been an assessed, registered and insured pet therapy dog, bringing comfort, smiles and a touch of sparkle wherever she goes.
Lottie works across a range of settings including SEND schools, primary and secondary schools, colleges, universities, care homes and children’s hospices. Her calm and gentle nature helps ease anxiety and lift spirits, while her playful side shines through in the form of affectionate nudges, eager tummy rub requests and joyful little sprints with those who share her love of animals.
Soon, Lottie will be joined by her daughter Winnie Connell, born in September 2025, who will proudly follow in her pawprints as the newest member of the pet therapy pack. Together, they’re set to bring even more warmth, comfort and wagging tails to those who need it most.
Members of the
Fit Paws Pack
Working alongside our enterprise business ‘Fit Paws’, our clients are supported in an accessible, work related activity that promotes wellbeing, responsibility and inclusion through the care, companionship and teamwork of these wonderful dogs.
The Fit Paws Pack is a team of four legged companions each with their own charm and personality:
Maggie is a loving Bedlington Terrier with the sweetest nature. She adores cuddles, fuss and being close to people, bringing calm and comfort wherever she goes.
Poppy, a black mix of Dalmatian and Retriever, is full of energy and happiness, especially when she’s curled up on someone’s lap soaking up attention.
Archie, a handsome chocolate Cockapoo, loves his regular grooming sessions almost as much as his cuddles. So laid back he’s practically horizontal, Archie brings a sense of calm wherever he goes.
Jasper, a golden Retriever with a heart of gold, is playful, friendly and eager to be everyone’s best friend. His gentle nature makes him a natural comforter.
Max, the adventurous Sprocker, thrives on being outdoors, exploring fields and following every scent he can find. He loves his furry friends, especially Poppy, for whom he has a definite soft spot.
