History of Paces
From a parent-led movement in the 1990s to Sheffield’s leading specialist CE centre.
Our Story
1980s – 1994: The Beginning
In the 1980s and early 1990s, UK families with children with Cerebral Palsy had to travel to the Pető Institute in Budapest to access Conductive Education. Inspired by the results they witnessed, a parent-led movement began to emerge across the country.
In 1992, Sheffield families — led by Karen Hague (daughter Kirstin) and Jan Tippet (daughter Sophie) — began a parent-led group in the city. Following an announcement that Conductors could now work with children in their own homes, early CE sessions began. Summer schools were soon established at Sheffield Hallam University, supported by The Spastics Society (now Scope).
These pioneering parents refused to accept that life-changing education should only be available abroad. Their determination laid the foundations for what would become Paces.
1995 – 1997: A Permanent Home
In 1995, Paces opened its first dedicated centre at Sheffield College, Dyche Lane. This was a huge milestone — a permanent, purpose-built space where CE could be delivered consistently. The centre was founded by Norman Perrin and Karen Hague, and the first pupils to walk through the doors were Sarah and Kirstin.
The demand for places grew rapidly. In 1997, with the support of Sheffield City Council, Paces relocated to the former High Green Comprehensive School — a larger site that could accommodate more families and expand its range of programmes.
This period saw Paces grow from a small community group into a recognised specialist provider, establishing the structures and reputation that continue to this day.
2023 – Present: Thorncliffe Hall
In 2023, Paces School made an exciting move to Thorncliffe Hall in Chapeltown, Sheffield. This modern facility provides an outstanding environment for learning and development, with state-of-the-art spaces designed around the needs of our pupils.
Today, Paces continues to grow its impact across all life stages — from early intervention through the Parent & Child programme, to specialist school education, to the adult day service and stroke group. We are also working towards our ambitious plans for a new, purpose-built home that could support three times as many children and adults.
More than 30 years on from those early parent-led sessions, the spirit that founded Paces — determination, compassion, and belief in every individual — remains at the heart of everything we do.
Key Milestones
1980s
Sheffield families begin travelling to the Pető Institute in Budapest for Conductive Education.
1992
Karen Hague (daughter Kirstin) and Jan Tippet (daughter Sophie) begin a parent-led CE group in Sheffield. Following news that Conductors can work in family homes, early sessions begin.
1992 – 1994
Summer schools established at Sheffield Hallam University, supported by The Spastics Society (now Scope).
1995
First Paces centre opens at Sheffield College, Dyche Lane. Founded by Norman Perrin & Karen Hague. First pupils: Sarah & Kirstin.
1997
Paces relocates to the former High Green Comprehensive School, with Sheffield City Council support.
2023
Paces School moves to Thorncliffe Hall, Chapeltown — a modern, purpose-designed facility for learning and development.