Ivel Valley School & College is a special educational needs provider for young people aged from three to 19 across Central Bedfordshire, all of whom have a learning disability. With over 250 pupils, the school says it is passionate about offering the best learning experiences it can for its pupils, but is appealing for help to secure a new minibus after its own vehicle reached the end of its economic life.
“Unfortunately, we find ourselves restricted to school grounds more frequently than we’d hope as we’re in desperate need of a new minibus,” the school says. “Minibuses at Ivel Valley are more than just transportation for our pupils. They are crucial resources that enable us to offer pupils experiences they may not otherwise have access to. Whether this is engaging with essential hydrotherapy sessions or visiting zoos, sports facilities and museums, our young people thrive from being able to explore the wider community. It helps them build confidence, independence and resilience whilst working on their communication and language skills, which are all vital to prepare them for adulthood.
“Our aim is to raise £55,000 to purchase a new minibus that can accommodate up to four wheelchair users at any one time, with an accessibility tailift to ensure their safety. The new bus needs to be light-weight, so that it can be driven by all staff with MIDAS training.” Anyone who might be able to help with either a minibus or funding is invited to contact the school via the CBW office on [email protected].
