About Us

“We” are Sheelagh Maloney and Julie Owen. Originally Sheelagh is from Birmingham and Julie from Ashton in Makerfield, near Wigan.

We have both worked in the field of education for a long time. In 2002 we set up a company to provide inclusive training to schools and Local Education Authorities. Since our company started in July 2002, (The Inclusion Consultancy Ltd) we have worked to promote Inclusive Practice in a wide range of organizations including Schools, LEAs and Government Departments. During this time we have been fortunate enough to work with like minded people from all walks of life  

Our philosophy is based on “The Circle of Courage” (Brendtro, L.K. et al (1990) with its 4 components of “Belonging” “Mastery” “Independence” and “Generosity”

We decided from the outset, that TICs profits had to be used “generously” i.e. giving back to others.  The idea for The Open Arms Project crystalised in 2004 and for the following two years we searched for an ideal place to set this up. After property hunting trips to South West France and Southern Spain we found Iznajar, in Cordoba province, in Spain. We think it is a magical place and a fabulous setting for the project.

We moved out to Spain permanently in April 2006 and since then have been working with architects and builders to ensure that the final building is perfect in every way. We became the proud owners of the five acre olive grove in October 2006 and were finally able to unlock the chain to the entrance of the land. Building will begin early in the new year of 2008

We will be welcoming guests from Winter 2008, in fact we already have bookings!

The profit from holidays at  Brazos Abiertos will ensure that we are able to support as many people as possible in the Open Arms Project.

©  Brazos Abiertos, 2006