16th September 2024
Students at South Devon College were on track with their transport skills in a model railway club, thanks to the GWR Customer and Community Improvement Fund.
The GWR grant, to the value of £4,000, funded the Learning Opportunities Railways Project – a project led by students with special educational needs that involved building a model railway, complete with tracks, engines, sheds and signal boxes.
The students were aged 16 and over with a range of special educational needs, including autism, dyslexia, ADHD, sensory conditions and physical disabilities. The group constructed the model railway, with support from staff, and two fellow students who have some experience in model railways, having engaged with their peers to share their knowledge and interest in the subject.
The group worked as a team to source building materials for the railway scene, with some students making the scenery in their art classes, whilst others constructed wooden structures, such as bridges and sheds, in woodwork lessons.
Student Remi Crofts said: “I really enjoy making things and doing arts and crafts – this project allowed me to do this and helped with my mindfulness.”
During the project, students visited the local train station in Paignton to inspire their model build, whilst also undertaking necessary experience with train travel to develop their independence. The students created video footage throughout, to document the training and showcase their work.
Another student Jay Bulley said: “Being part of this project has helped me to explore my creativity. I really enjoy the fact that I am helping to recreate a railway that looks real but is in model form.”
The railways project, thanks to the funding, has been added to the curriculum provision for the College’s Learning Opportunity students. They can choose an area of interest on a Wednesday afternoon, such as cooking, gardening, or music, alongside their programmes of study, during which they develop independent living skills in preparation for adulthood.
Louise Alldridge, SEND Officer at South Devon College, said: “The project and collaboration with GWR proved to be very beneficial for our learners in the Learning Opportunities department at the College.
“It provided our learners with a very mindful project to focus on which is imperative for mental health. They learned lots of valuable skills including teamwork, communication and creativity.
“They also experienced working with other members of the college and the community to bring the project together. Without the financial input and support from GWR, this would not have been possible.”
At the end of the project students, family, staff and members of the public were invited into college to see the model railway, listen to a presentation from the students and participate in a celebration of the students’ achievements.
Students celebrate the GWR project alongside staff from South Devon College
GWR Community Manager Emma Morris said: “The Customer and Community Improvement Fund is a fantastic opportunity for us to invest in projects that really make a difference at a local level.
“We’re delighted to support South Devon College, which helped students with a range of special educational needs to focus on independent living and employability skills like teamwork, communication, and adaptability along with travel training and confidence building on how to use the railway.”
