Holiday Parks supporting SEND children

Young students with special educational needs are gaining valuable work and independence skills thanks to a Shropshire holiday park’s forward-looking community engagement scheme. Family-owned Woodland Park Lodges, located in tranquil countryside near the Welsh borders, is partnering with nearby Derwen College to provide weekly work placements – one of the UK’s Holiday Parks supporting SEND children.

Hands on support for SENDS Students

Students Brodie and Tom from the specialist further education college are the first to enjoy getting involved with hands-on holiday tasks in the company of a dedicated job coach.

With 11 lodges and seven luxury treehouses with private hot-tubs set in 52 acres of woodland, said park managing director Victoria Thornley, there’s plenty to keep everyone busy:

“It’s great to have students from Derwen College working alongside us, and they are always keen to learn and develop their knowledge by trying different challenges.

“We have very good feedback on the cleanliness of our lodges which is testament to the positive impact they are making,” said Victoria whose park is currently developing additional tree-top accommodation for guests.

But although the lodges offer a uniquely close encounter with the natural world, says Victoria, the experience won’t mean bidding farewell to creature comforts.

Each lodge has been furnished and equipped to a five-star standard with contemporary kitchens, bathrooms and living areas which have the vibe of a luxury hotel suite.

There’s even a private hot-tub on the timber veranda, plus a barbecue and dining table for al fresco eating whilst drinking in the spectacular surrounding views.

Sense of Pride for SEND students on Holiday Parks

Derwen College Principal and CEO Meryl Green said she was delighted at how Woodland Lodges was helping to provide the sense of pride that paid employment can bring.

“Thanks to Victoria and her family, our students are being helped on their journey to employment, and revelling in the feeling of achievement which meaningful work experience can offer,” she said.

Woodland Park Lodges are also generous supporters of the Derwen Charity, and has donated a luxury family break to its summer raffle. More information at https://www.woodlandparklodges.co.uk/